1. Set up the boards
Place the front edges 27 feet apart for regulation play. Use two sets of four distinguishable bags. Leave room beside both boards for players to stand and throw.
2. Pick singles or doubles
In singles, two opponents throw from the same end, then walk to the other board. In doubles, partners stand at opposite ends and take turns playing rounds from their end.
3. Take turns throwing
Alternate one bag at a time until all eight have been thrown. Keep your delivery comfortable and consistent. Aim for the middle of the board while you learn to control distance.
4. Count the round
A bag on the board scores 1; a bag through the hole scores 3. Subtract the lower total from the higher. Only the difference goes onto the scoreboard. For example, 6 against 4 earns the leading side 2 points.
5. Finish the game
Play until one side has at least 21 after a completed round. Agree on the score before collecting bags.
Check fouls, scoring and common rule questions →Make room for everyone to play
With several pairs waiting, a round-robin schedule makes the next matchup clear. Give each pair a short name, list the matchups, and call the next group when a board set opens.
Make your group's schedule →Common questions
How many people can play cornhole?
A game has two players in singles or four in doubles. Larger groups can rotate through scheduled matches.
What should a beginner practice first?
Try landing bags on the same part of the board with a repeatable motion. Add games once players can control their distance.
How do we avoid long waits with a large group?
Use a schedule, number your board sets and announce the next matchup before the current one ends. A round robin gives each pair several opponents.
Official rulebooks
Ready to set the matchups?
Add your teams and share the plan before game day.
Make a bracket for your group →