If you’re setting up a cornhole game for a backyard party or tournament, you may be wondering: how many feet apart should cornhole boards be?
According to official cornhole rules:
Cornhole boards should be placed 27 feet apart from front edge to front edge.
For casual games and younger players, shorter distances are often used.
In this guide, you’ll learn the official board spacing, measurements for kids, and tips for setting up the perfect cornhole game.
Quick Answer: Official Cornhole Distance
The official distance between cornhole boards is:
- 27 feet from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other board.
- 33 feet from hole to hole.
This is the standard distance used in tournaments and competitive play.
Official Cornhole Board Measurements
Tournament cornhole boards have the following dimensions:
- Length: 4 feet
- Width: 2 feet
- Hole diameter: 6 inches
The hole is centered:
- 9 inches from the top edge
- 12 inches from each side
Cornhole Board Spacing Formula
The standard setup uses:
- 27 feet between the front edges
- 33 feet between the centers of the holes
The layout looks like this:
| Measurement Type | Distance |
|---|---|
| Front edge to front edge | 27 feet |
| Hole to hole | 33 feet |
| Back edge to back edge | 35 feet |
Backyard Cornhole Distances
Many families prefer shorter distances for casual games.
| Player Type | Recommended Distance |
| Young children | 12โ15 feet |
| Teenagers | 18โ21 feet |
| Casual adults | 21โ24 feet |
| Tournament players | 27 feet |
Reducing the distance makes the game easier and more enjoyable for beginners.
Cornhole Distance for Kids
Children often struggle with the official setup.
Recommended distances:
- Ages 6โ8: 12 feet
- Ages 9โ12: 15โ18 feet
- Teens: 18โ21 feet
You can gradually increase the distance as players improve.
How to Measure Cornhole Board Distance
To set up your boards correctly:
- Place the first board on a flat surface.
- Measure 27 feet from the front edge.
- Position the second board.
- Double-check that both boards face each other directly.
Using a tape measure ensures an accurate setup.
How Big Is 27 Feet?
A distance of 27 feet is approximately equal to:
- Three parked cars.
- Nine yards.
- About half the length of a bowling lane.
This gives players enough space for competitive play.
Cornhole Court Dimensions
A full cornhole court typically includes:
- Two boards.
- Pitcher’s boxes.
- Foul lines.
The total court area is usually:
- About 45 feet long.
- About 10โ12 feet wide.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Setup
Indoor Setup
- Use a level surface.
- Leave room around the boards.
- Protect floors if necessary.
Outdoor Setup
- Choose flat ground.
- Avoid obstacles.
- Consider wind conditions.
FAQs
How many feet apart should cornhole boards be?
Official cornhole boards should be 27 feet apart from front edge to front edge.
How far apart are cornhole holes?
The holes are approximately 33 feet apart.
What is the official tournament distance?
Tournament games use a distance of 27 feet.
How far apart should kids’ cornhole boards be?
Children usually play at distances between 12 and 18 feet.
How wide is a cornhole board?
A regulation cornhole board is 2 feet wide.
How long is a cornhole board?
A standard cornhole board measures 4 feet long.
Can you shorten the distance for backyard games?
Yes. Casual games often use shorter distances to make the game easier.
Quick Facts
- Official cornhole boards are 27 feet apart.
- Hole-to-hole distance is 33 feet.
- Boards measure 4 feet by 2 feet.
- Kids usually play from shorter distances.
- A full court is roughly 45 feet long.
Final Thoughts
For official games, cornhole boards should be placed 27 feet apart from front edge to front edge.
If you’re playing casually or with children, feel free to shorten the distance to make the game more enjoyable for everyone.

