What is cornhole?

What Is Cornhole? The Game Everyone Starts — and No One Wants to Stop Playing

Cornhole is the game where everything just works: competition, fun, simplicity and atmosphere. Two boards. Eight bags. One goal: hit the hole and beat your opponent.

Sounds simple? It is. But don’t underestimate it.

Cornhole is easy enough for beginners, yet strategic enough to keep you hooked. That’s exactly why you’ll see it at festivals, corporate events, campsites, hospitality venues and backyard gatherings all over the world.

Want to make sure you’re playing it right? Start by checking out the official cornhole rules so you know the basics.

Why Is Cornhole So Popular?

Because it delivers instantly.

  • No complicated explanation

  • No elite fitness required

  • No long setup

  • Immediate competition

Within five minutes, everyone can play. Within ten minutes, it gets competitive. Within twenty minutes, nobody wants to stop. That’s the power of cornhole.

How Does Cornhole Work?

You play with:

  • 2 cornhole boards

  • 8 cornhole bags (4 per player or team)

  • 2 players (singles) or 4 players (doubles)

Players stand opposite each other and take turns throwing their bags toward the opponent’s board.

  • Bag on the board = 1 point

  • Bag in the hole = 3 points

Scoring is calculated using the cancellation scoring system. Want the full breakdown? Read more about cornhole scoring and point calculation.

Official Distance (And Why It Matters)

Cornhole isn’t played “approximately right.” There are official board dimensions and fixed distances between boards. This ensures fairness, consistency and real competition. Curious about the exact board size and official playing distance? Check out our page on cornhole distances & dimensions.

Playing recreationally? You can adapt. Playing seriously? Stick to the official measurements.

Cornhole Is Easy. Getting Good Isn’t.

Anyone can throw a bag. But landing it with control? Blocking your opponent intentionally? Hitting a clean airmail shot? That takes technique.

Cornhole even has its own terminology and shot types:

  • Slide

  • Blocker

  • Airmail

  • Wash

New to the game? In our overview of cornhole terminology & jargon, we explain every term clearly and simply.

Recreational or Competitive?

Cornhole has two worlds.

1. Backyard & Events

Relaxed, accessible and fun for everyone.

2. Competitive Play

Official dimensions, structured rules and serious strategy.

Both are great. But the level difference can be huge.

At Gockel, we believe quality equipment makes the difference — especially if you play frequently or use cornhole at events or in a professional setting.

Who Is Cornhole For?

Honestly? Almost everyone.

  • Families

  • Groups of friends

  • Companies

  • Hospitality venues

  • Festivals

  • Sports clubs

Cornhole is social without being intrusive. Competitive without becoming aggressive. Active without being exhausting. That’s exactly why it’s becoming a go-to game for brand activations and corporate events.

What Do You Need to Start?

The basics are simple:

  • A quality cornhole set

  • Enough playing space

  • Basic knowledge of the rules

Want help choosing the right set for your situation (home, event or business)? We cover that in detail in our equipment section.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cornhole

How many points do you play to?

Standard games are played to 21 points.

Can you play indoors?

Yes, as long as you have sufficient space and a suitable surface.

Is cornhole difficult?

No. But improving your consistency and strategy takes practice.

How long does a game last?

On average, 10 to 20 minutes.

In Short

Cornhole is simple, addictive and surprisingly strategic. It’s the kind of game that brings people together naturally. Whether you play casually or competitively, one thing is certain: Once you start, you’ll want to get better. And that’s where it really begins.