How To Keep Score in Cornhole: 14 Creative Ideas

Cornhole isn’t just a game; it’s a lifestyle. Whether you're tossing beanbags in the backyard, at a family reunion, or in a fierce tournament, keeping score is important—but who says it has to be boring? Ditch the plain scoreboards and punch up your game with some fun and creative scoring methods. After all, if you’re already flexing your cornhole skills, your scorekeeping should be just as legendary. We’ll teach you some of the most creative ways you can keep score in cornhole.
Use a Chalkboard Scoreboard
The timeless chalkboard remains a favorite for scoring games, and for good reason. All you need is a flat surface, some chalk, and a steady hand to mark each point. It’s an easy and affordable option that adds a classic, rustic charm to your game. Want to give it a bit more personality? Use colorful chalk to liven things up or even draw fun designs around the scoreboard. Plus, it’s reusable—just wipe and start fresh for the next match.
Invest in Magnetic Score Pegs
Magnetic score pegs are a sleek and practical way to keep track of points. These handy little pegs effortlessly slide up and down a board and attach to any magnetic surface. There’s no need to worry about erasing or rewriting; just move the peg and you’re good to go. They’re perfect for adding an organized, modern vibe to your cornhole setup while also being incredibly user-friendly and durable for repeated use.
Giant Jenga Blocks as Score Markers
Why not combine two fun games into one? Oversized Jenga blocks can double as score markers, adding a creative twist to your Cornhole match. Write numbers on the blocks and stack them as teams rack up points. Not only is it a unique way to keep score, but it also turns scoring into a visual experience. By the end of the game, you’ll have a towering masterpiece to admire—or knock over for fun.
Dry-Erase Boards for the Win
A dry-erase board is a versatile and easy-to-use option for keeping score. Just grab a whiteboard, some markers, and start tallying up points. It’s perfect for those “oops” moments when someone miscounts, as it’s super easy for you or someone else to wipe those mistakes away in seconds. Plus, it’s reusable, making it an eco-friendly choice. Whether you go small and portable or opt for a larger board for clear visibility, dry-erase boards are always a win.

String Beads on a Score Counter
For something a little different, try using beads on a string as a score counter. Slide one bead for each point scored, creating a tactile and visually satisfying way to track the game. You can customize the beads with team colors or use bright, multicolored ones for an extra pop of fun. Portable and simple, this method adds a crafty, hands-on element to your game.
Try Digital Scorekeeping Apps
For tech enthusiasts, digital scorekeeping apps provide a modern solution. These apps not only track points but also offer features like:
- Toss accuracy
- Game history
- Team stats
With just a few taps on your phone or tablet, you can manage the entire game digitally, eliminating the need for physical scoreboards. It’s a cutting-edge way to keep things organized and take your cornhole game to the next level.
Hang a Clothesline and Use Clothespins
If you’re feeling crafty, create a DIY scoring system with a clothesline and numbered clothespins. Hang the line where everyone can see it and move the clothespins along as different teams earn points. It’s a quirky, creative option that also serves as a fun conversation starter. For an added flair, decorate the clothespins to match your team’s theme, or use bright colors to make them stand out.
Shuffle Up With Playing Cards
Add an unexpected twist by using playing cards to keep score. Assign point values to the cards and deal them out as teams score. At the end of the game, the team with the highest card total wins. It’s a lighthearted, unpredictable way to keep the game exciting, and it adds a touch of surprise to the scoring process.
Glow-In-The-Dark Tally Marks
Take your cornhole game into the night with glow-in-the-dark tally marks. Use glow-in-the-dark markers or paint to track points on a scoreboard. Not only does it keep the game going after sunset, but it also creates a fun, illuminated vibe for nighttime play. It’s perfect for creating a memorable evening of fun with friends and family.
Create a “Score Tower”
Turn scoring into a bit of a game itself with a score tower. Use blocks or cups to build a tower, adding one piece for each point a team earns. Be careful, though—you might knock over the tower if you’re not careful, but it’s all part of the fun! This method adds a playful, interactive element to the game that’s sure to lead to plenty of laughs and memorable moments.
Poker Chips for Points
Poker chips offer a simple yet effective way to track points. Toss a chip into your team’s designated bucket or bowl for every score. It’s a tangible, easy-to-use method that brings a touch of Vegas-style flair to your backyard. Bonus points if you use different colors to represent each team!

Countdown Style Instead of Add-Up
Switch things up by starting with the maximum score, like 21, and counting down as teams score points. This reverse scoring method adds a fresh twist to the game and creates a more intense, race-to-the-finish vibe. It’s a small but fun change that can add an extra layer of excitement to your matches.
Fun-Themed Scoreboards
Why settle for a plain scoreboard when you can make it part of the experience? Customize your scoreboard to match your vibe, whether it’s a tiki bar theme, bright neon colors, or even a board shaped like a beanbag. Personalizing your setup adds a unique touch to the game and shows off a bit of your personality.
Partner Up With Mini Whiteboards
Give each team its own mini whiteboard to track points. This way, each team is responsible for keeping its own score, cutting down on arguments and ensuring accuracy. Just make sure everyone plays fair! Mini whiteboards are compact, easy to use, and an excellent addition to your game setup. Plus, they’re reusable for future matches.
From chalkboards to apps and everything in between, scoring in cornhole doesn’t have to be a snooze. Mix some extra creativity into your next game with these creative ideas to keep score in cornhole, making the games even more engaging for players and spectators!
Now, grab your beanbag, your American flag cornhole boards from us at Slick Woody’s, and your scoresheet (or your Jenga blocks), and head out to your next cornhole showdown. You’ll have everyone talking about your new scoring style just as much as your killer toss!