Accounting Policies [Abstract] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of significant accounting policies. Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Restricted stock [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Stock options [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Accounts Receivable [Member] Accounts Receivable [Member] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Class A [Member] Common Class A [Member] Class B [Member] Common Class B [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary of significant accounting policies. Number of operating segments Number of Operating Segments Accounts receivable due period Accounts Receivable Due Period Accounts receivable due period. Billing date Billing date Billing date. Outstanding days of account receivable Past Due Days Of Account Receivable Considered Delinquent Past Due Days Of Account Receivable Considered Delinquent Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Capitalized general and administrative costs Capitalized General And Administrative Costs Capitalized general and administrative costs. Capitalized interest expense Interest Costs Capitalized Present value discounted percent of future net revenues of proved oil and natural gas reserves Discounting Rate Present Value of Future Revenue from Proved Oil and Gas Reserves Discounting rate present value of future revenue from proved oil and gas reserves. Average oil and natural gas prices Average Sales Prices Net capitalized costs less related deferred income taxes exceeded the full-cost ceiling Unamortized Costs Capitalized Less Related Deferred Income Taxes Exceed Ceiling Limitations, Expense Impairment charge of net capitalized costs Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties Deferred income tax credit Changes in Future Income Tax Expense Estimates on Future Cash Flows Related to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves Useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Useful life using the straight-line Useful Life Using Straight Line Useful life using straight line. Number of purchasers Number of Purchasers Number of purchasers. Concentration risk, percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Vested Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Stock-based compensation Compensation and Benefits Trust Stock-based compensation (non-cash) expense Share-based Compensation Common stock and restricted stock unit expense Common Stock And Restricted Stock Expense Common stock and restricted stock expense. Percentage being realized up on ultimate settlement Minimum Percentage Likelihood Of Tax Benefit To Be Realized Upon Final Settlement Minimum percentage likelihood of tax benefit to be realized upon final settlement. Cumulative annual dividends per share rate Cumulative Annual Dividends Per Share Rate Cumulative annual dividends per share rate. Dividends declared Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Dividends paid Payments of Dividends Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Class A Class B Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Supplemental Disclosures [Abstract] Supplemental disclosures. Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for interest expense, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Net Asset retirement obligations related to mineral properties Results of Operations, Accretion of Asset Retirement Obligations Asset retirement obligations related to support equipment and facilities Asset Retirement Obligations Related to Support & Equipment Facilities Asset retirement obligations related to support & equipment facilities Increase in liabilities for oil and natural gas properties capital expenditures Results of Operations, Expense from Oil and Gas Producing Activities Increase in liabilities for support equipment and facilities Increase Decrease in Liabilities for Support Equipment and Facilities Increase decrease in liabilities for support equipment and facilities. Issuance of restricted stock units for Board and advisor services Issuance Of Restricted Stock Units For Board And Advisor Services Issuance of restricted stock units for board and advisor services. Issuance of common stock for Board and advisor services Issuance of Common Stock for Board and Advisor Services Issuance of common stock for board and advisor services . (Decrease) increase in liabilities for accrued cost to issue equity Decrease Increase in Liabilities for Accrued Cost to Issue Equity Decrease increase in liabilities for accrued cost to issue equity. Stock based compensation expense recognized as liability Stock-based Compensation Expense Recognized as Liability Stock based compensation expense recognized as liability. Transfer of inventory to oil and natural gas properties Transfer of Inventory from Oil and Natural Gas Properties Transfer of inventory from oil and natural gas properties. Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Sale of Stock by Subsidiary or Equity Investee [Table] Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Sale of Stock by Subsidiary or Equity Investee [Table] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] Stock Based Compensation Two Thousand Twelve Incentive Plan [Member] Stock Based Compensation Two Thousand Twelve Incentive Plan [Member] Stock Based Compensation Two Thousand Twelve Incentive Plan [Member] Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock, Name of Transaction [Domain] Sale of Stock [Domain] Initial Public Offering [Member] IPO [Member] Selling shareholders [Member] Selling Shareholders [Member] Selling shareholders. Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Matador Resources Company [Member] Parent Company [Member] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type Categorization [Domain] Investments [Domain] Over-allotments [Member] Over Allotment [Member] Over allotment. Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items] Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Subsidiary ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Issuance of Class A common stock, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Company offering shares Issuance Of Common Stock Under Public Offering To Underwriters By Company Issuance of common stock under initial public offering to underwriters by company. Public Offering, Underwriting Discounts, Commissions, and Direct Offering Costs Public Offering, Underwriting Discounts, Commissions, and Direct Offering Costs Public Offering, Underwriting Discounts, Commissions, and Direct Offering Costs Proceeds from issuance of common stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Repayments of Long-term Debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Proceeds From Public Offering Used to Fund Working Capital Proceeds From Public Offering Used to Fund Working Capital Proceeds From Public Offering Used to Fund Working Capital Initial offering price per share Sale of Stock, Price Per Share Company's common stock began trading, date Entity Listing Date of Listing Entity listing, date of listing. Issuance of common stock Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued Initial public offering closure date Initial Public Offering Closure Date Initial public offering closure date. Additional issuance of common stock Issuance Of Common Stock Under Initial Public Offering To Underwriters Issuance of common stock under initial public offering to underwriters. Initial offering period Offering Period To Underwriters Offering Period To Underwriters Shareholders offering for sales Issuance Of Common Stock Under Initial Public Offering To Underwriters By Selling Shareholders Issuance of common stock under initial public offering to underwriters by selling. Option to purchase additional shares Shares Issued Upon Full Exercise Of Underwriters Option To Purchase Additional Shares Shares issued upon full exercise of underwriters option to purchase additional shares. Option to purchase additional shares from company Shares Issued Upon Full Exercise Of Underwriters Option To Purchase Additional Shares By Company Shares issued upon full exercise of underwriters option to purchase additional shares by company. Option to purchase additional shares from selling shareholders Shares Issued Upon Full Exercise Of Underwriters Option To Purchase Additional Shares By Selling Shareholders Shares issued upon full exercise of underwriters option to purchase additional shares by selling shareholders. Net Proceeds Proceeds from Issuance Initial Public Offering Repay in borrowings then outstanding under its Credit Agreement in full Repayments of Lines of Credit Share issued to options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Proceeds from stock options exercised for additional shares Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Treasury Stock, Shares Forfeitures of non-vested restricted stock awards Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Restricted Stock Units Service Based [Member] Restricted Stock Units Service Based [Member] Restricted stock units service based. Restricted Stock Units Performance Based [Member] Restricted Stock Units Performance Based [Member] Restricted stock units performance based. Restricted Stock Performance Based [Member] Restricted Stock Performance Based [Member] Restricted stock performance based. Restricted Stock Service Based [Member] Restricted Stock Service Based [Member] Restricted stock service based. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Maximum shares that may be issued pursuant to options or restricted stock grants Stock Allocated During Period For Shares Stock Options Or Restricted Stock Grants Stock allocated during period for shares stock options or restricted stock grants. Maximum shares of common stock provided Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Vesting period of shares Maximum vesting period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Expiration Period Maximum Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award expiration period maximum. Maximum vesting period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Expiration Period One Maximum Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award expiration period one maximum. Number of options granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Aggregate intrinsic value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Quoted closing market price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted average contractual term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Total intrinsic value of options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Tax related benefits realized from the exercise of stock options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options Stock-based compensation expense Stock based long term liability Deferred Compensation Liability, Classified, Noncurrent Stock based current liability Deferred Compensation Liability, Current Unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested stock options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Stock Options Weighted average remaining requisite service period of unvested stock awards Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Fair value of option shares vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Defer issuance term Deferral Period For Issuance Of Restricted Stock Units Upon Vesting Maximum Deferral period for issuance of restricted stock units upon vesting maximum. Weighted average fair value, usd per share Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vesting Period, beginning date Beginning of Measurement Period For Vesting Of Performance Based awards Beginning of the measurement period for the vesting of the performance based awards. Vesting period, end date Ending of Measurement Period For Vesting Of Performance Based awards Ending of the measurement period for the vesting of the performance based awards. Additional restricted stock vesting Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Award Vesting Units Maximum Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award award vesting units maximum. Restricted stock grants Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Restricted stock or unit expenses Restricted Stock or Unit Expense Unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock and restricted stock units Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Share-based Awards Other than Options Fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Restricted stock grants Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Weighted average fair value, Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Number of options, Options forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Weighted average grant date fair value for options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted option share purchase price, per share Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate intrinsic value for the restricted stock and restricted stock units outstanding Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options outstanding aggregate intrinsic value. Tax benefits recognized for stock based compensation Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of future minimum lease payments required under the office lease agreement Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Summary of aggregate undiscounted minimum commitments Summary of Aggregate Undiscounted Minimum Commitments Table Text Block [Table Text Block] Summary of aggregate undiscounted minimum commitments. Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Costs Transferred Into Amortization Base [Axis] Costs Transferred Into Amortization Base [Axis] Costs Transferred Into Amortization Base [Axis] Costs Transferred Into Amortization Base [Domain] Costs Transferred Into Amortization Base [Domain] [Domain] for Costs Transferred Into Amortization Base [Axis] Exploratory Wells [Member] Exploratory Wells [Member] Exploratory Wells [Member] Development Wells [Member] Development Wells [Member] Development Wells [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Anticipated Timing of Inclusion of Costs in Amortization Calculation, Years Anticipated Timing of Inclusion of Costs in Amortization Calculation, Years The anticipated timing (in years) of the inclusion of the costs in the amortization computation. Amortization costs Cost Incurred On Proved Reserves Transferred To Amortization Base Cost incurred on proved reserves transferred to amortization base. Amount for development wells Development Costs, Cumulative Anticipated amount for wells Capitalized Costs, Wells and Related Equipment and Facilities 2003 Stock and Incentive Plan [Member] Stock Based Compensation Two Thousand and Three Stock and Incentive Plan [Member] Stock Based Compensation Two Thousand and Three Stock and Incentive Plan [Member] Weighted average assumptions used to estimate fair value of stock options granted under the Stock and Incentive Plan Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract] Stock option pricing model Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used Expected option life Risk-free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Estimated forfeiture rate Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Fair Value Assumptions Estimated Forfeiture Rate Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award fair value assumptions estimated forfeiture rate. Weighted average fair value of stock option awards granted during the year Asset Sales and Impairment [Abstract] Asset Sales and Impairment [Abstract] Schedule of Change in Accounting Estimate [Table] Schedule of Change in Accounting Estimate [Table] Drilling rig [Member] Wells and Related Equipment and Facilities [Member] Pipe and other equipment [Member] Pipelines [Member] Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items] Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items] Impairment charge for equipments held in inventory Inventory Write-down Carrying value of inventory Inventory Drilling Rig Parts Net At Carrying Value Inventory drilling rig parts net at carrying value. Remaining balance of drilling rig parts Inventory, Net Net loss incurred in South Pipeline asset Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Other Assets Summarized information about stock options outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Number of options, Options outstanding Beginning Balance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Number of options, Options exercised Number of options, Options outstanding Ending Balance Weighted average exercise price, Options outstanding Beginning Balance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted average exercise price, Options granted Weighted average exercise price, Options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted average exercise price, Options forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted average exercise price, Options outstanding Ending Balance Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair value on a non-recurring basis [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Additions to asset retirement obligations and lease and well equipment inventory at fair value on a non-recurring basis Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Non Recurring Basis [Abstract] Fair value assets and liabilities measured on non recurring basis. Assets (Liabilities) Asset (Liabilities) [Abstract] Asset liability. Asset retirement obligations Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Nonrecurring Lease and well equipment inventory Lease and Well Equipment Inventory Lease and well equipment inventory. Total Asset (Liabilities) Fair Value Disclosure Nonrecurring Asset (liabilities) fair value disclosure nonrecurring. Summary of the Company's property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Breakdown of the Company's unproved and unevaluated property costs not subject to amortization Schedule of Capitalized Costs of Unproved Properties Excluded from Amortization [Table Text Block] SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Supplemental disclosures. Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract] Changes in the Company's asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Beginning asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation Liabilities incurred during period Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Incurred Liabilities settled during period Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Settled Revisions in estimated cash flows Asset Retirement Obligation, Revision of Estimate Accretion expense Accretion Expense Ending asset retirement obligations Less: current asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation, Current Long-term asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent Capitalized Costs of Unproved Properties Excluded from Amortization [Table] Capitalized Costs of Unproved Properties Excluded from Amortization [Table] Project [Axis] Project [Axis] Project [Domain] Project [Domain] 2013 [Member] Current Year [Member] Current Year [Member] 2012 [Member] Prior Year [Member] Prior Year [Member] 2011 [Member] Two Years Prior [Member] Two Years Prior [Member] 2010 and prior [Member] Three Years and Prior [Member] Three Years and Prior [Member] Projects Inception to Date [Member] Projects Inception to Date [Member] Projects Inception to Date [Member] Capitalized Costs of Unproved Properties Excluded from Amortization [Line Items] Capitalized Costs of Unproved Properties Excluded from Amortization [Line Items] Breakdown of the Company's unproved and unevaluated property costs not subject to amortization Capitalized Costs of Unproved Properties Excluded from Amortization, Cumulative [Abstract] Costs incurred for Property acquisition Acquisition Costs, Cumulative Exploration wells Exploration Costs, Cumulative Amount for development wells Capitalized interest Accumulated Capitalized Interest Costs Total unproved and unevaluated Capitalized Costs, Unproved Properties Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Maximum [Member] Minimum [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Heyco Acquisition [Member] Heyco Acquisition [Member] Heyco Acquisition [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Business Combinations Acreage Acquired, Gross Business Combinations Acreage Acquired, Gross Business Combinations Acreage Acquired, Gross Business Combinations Acreage Acquired, Net Business Combinations Acreage Acquired, Net Business Combinations Acreage Acquired, Net Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Other Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Other Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Issued upon Conversion Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Issued upon Conversion Business Combinations, Purchase Price Adjustments for Production, Revenues and Operating and Capital Expenditures Business Combinations, Purchase Price Adjustments for Production, Revenues and Operating and Capital Expenditures Business Combinations, Purchase Price Adjustments for Production, Revenues and Operating and Capital Expenditures Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Per-Dollar-Amount Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Per-Dollar-Amount Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period Stock option awards granted Fair value of awards Share Based Compensation Arrangements by Share Based Payment Award Options Grants in Period Fair Value Share based compensation arrangements by share based payment award options grants in period fair value. Minimum outstanding commitments Minimum Outstanding Aggregate Commitments Minimum outstanding aggregate commitments. Summary of current accrued liabilities Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Equity [Abstract] SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS Subsidiary Guarantors [Text Block] Subsidiary Guarantors [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Oil and natural gas revenues Oil and Gas Sales Revenue Realized gain (loss) on derivatives Gain (Loss) on Sale of Derivatives Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Total revenues Revenues Expenses Operating Expenses [Abstract] Production taxes and marketing Production Taxes and Marketing Taxes assessed on oil and gas production, and compression, transportation and marketing expenses. Lease operating Oil and Gas Property, Lease Operating Expense Depletion, depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Accretion of asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Full-cost ceiling impairment General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Total expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income (loss) Operating Income (Loss) Other income (expense) Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Net loss on asset sales and inventory impairment Net Loss On Asset Sales And Inventory Impairment Net loss on asset sales and inventory impairment Interest expense Interest Expense Interest and other income Interest and Other Income Total other expense Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax provision (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total income tax provision (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Earnings (loss) per common share Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Basic (usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Diluted (usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted average common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation [Abstract] Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract] Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Employee Benefit Plan (Textual) [Abstract] Employee Benefit Plan (Textual) [Abstract] Employee Benefit Plan (Textual) [Abstract] Employees annual compensation Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay Safe Harbor match Defined Contribution Plan Employer Matching Contribution Amount Defined contribution plan employer matching contribution amount Discretionary matching contributions Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount No additional discretionary contributions Defined Contribution Plan Employer Additional Discretionary Contribution Amount Defined contribution plan employer additional discretionary contribution amount. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Petroleum Reserves [Axis] Petroleum Reserves [Axis] Type of Reserve [Domain] Type of Reserve [Domain] Oil [Member] Oil [Member] Natural Gas [Member] Natural Gas [Member] NGL's [Member] Natural Gas Liquids [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Revenues [Member] Revenues [Member] Revenues. Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Summary of location and aggregate fair value of all derivative financial instruments recorded in the consolidated statements of operations Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net [Abstract] Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives Total Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Net income (loss) - numerator Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Net income (loss) Less dividends to Class B shareholders - distributed earnings Distributed Earnings Undistributed earnings (loss) Undistributed Earnings, Basic Weighted average common shares outstanding - denominator Weighted average common shares outstanding for basic earnings (loss) per share Dilutive effect of options and restricted stock units Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Diluted Distributed earnings (usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic, Distributed Undistributed (loss) earnings (usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic, Undistributed Total (usd per share) Distributed earnings (usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted, Distributed Undistributed (loss) earnings (usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted, Undistributed Total (usd per share) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Revolving Credit Agreement [Table] Revolving Credit Agreement [Table] Revolving credit agreement. Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Base rate loan [Member] Base Rate Loan [Member] Base rate loan. LIBOR rate [Member] Libor Rate [Member] LIBOR rate. Eurodollar Loan [Member] Euro Dollar Loan [Member] Euro dollar loan. Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Third amended credit agreement [Member] Third Amended Credit Agreement [Member] Third amended credit agreement. Revolving Credit Agreement [Line Items] Revolving Credit Agreement [Line Items] Revolving credit agreement. Revolving Credit Agreement (Textual) [Abstract] Revolving Credit Agreement (Textual) [Abstract] Revolving credit agreement. Company amended and restated its senior secured revolving credit agreement Line of Credit Amendment Date Line of credit amendment date. Line Of Credit Facility Amended Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line Of Credit Facility Amended Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of credit facility amended maximum borrowing capacity. Credit Agreement, maturity date Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date The borrowing base under the Credit Agreement determined Line of Credit Borrowing Base Frequency of Valuation Line of credit borrowing base frequency of valuation. Conforming borrowing base Line Of Credit Conforming Borrowing Base Conforming borrowing base. Reduction of borrowing base by issuance of senior unsecured notes covenant Line of Credit Facility, Covenant, Reduction of Borrowing Base Due to Issuance of Senior Unsecured Notes Line of Credit Facility, Covenant, Reduction of Borrowing Base Due to Issuance of Senior Unsecured Notes Debt to EBITDA ratio covenant Line of Credit Facility, Covenant, Debt to EBITDA Ratio Line of Credit Facility, Covenant, Debt to EBITDA Ratio Senior secured revolving credit maximum facility Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Additional borrowings for working capital requirements Line Of Credit Facility Additional Borrowings Line of credit facility additional borrowings. Current borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Repayments of Lines of Credit Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent Borrowings interest rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Additional interest rate Line of Credit Additional Interest Rate Line of credit additional interest rate. Credit facility fee Credit Facility Fee Credit facility fee. Repay deficit in agreement Period Repay Deficit in Agreement Period Repay deficit in agreement period. Outstanding letters of credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Unamortized Deferred Finance Costs Unamortized Deferred Finance Costs Unamortized deferred finance costs. Outstanding borrowings bore interest effective rate Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Federal Funds Effective Plus Rate Federal Funds Effective Plus Rate Federal funds effective plus rate. Percentage of reserves required to maintain Percentage of Reserves Required to Maintain Percentage of reserves required to maintain. Third Amended Credit Agreement [Member] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash Cash Restricted Cash and Investments, Current Restricted Cash and Investments, Current Accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Net, Current [Abstract] Oil and natural gas revenues Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Joint interest billings Oil and Gas Joint Interest Billing Receivables, Current Other Other Receivables, Net, Current Derivative instruments Derivative Asset, Current Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property and equipment, at cost Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Oil and natural gas properties, full-cost method Oil and Gas Property, Full Cost Method, Net [Abstract] Evaluated Oil and Gas Property, Full Cost Method, Gross Unproved and unevaluated Other property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross Less accumulated depletion, depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Net property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Derivative instruments Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total other assets Other Assets Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Royalties payable Accrued Royalties, Current Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Current Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Income taxes payable Accrued Income Taxes, Current Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Borrowings under Credit Agreement Asset retirement obligations Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Noncurrent Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total long-term liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Commitments and contingencies (Note 13) Commitments and Contingencies Shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock — Class A, $0.01 par value, 80,000,000 shares authorized; 73,373,744 and 66,958,867 shares issued; 73,342,777 and 65,652,690, shares outstanding, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury stock, at cost, 30,967 and 1,306,177 shares, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Total shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and shareholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassifications Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts Receivable Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lease and Well Equipment Inventory Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Regulatory Income Taxes, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Common Share Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Credit Risk Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Summary of net deferred tax position Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Income tax expense reconciled to the tax computed at the statutory federal rate Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Current period net (loss) income attributable to parent Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Unrealized (gain) loss on derivatives Deferred income tax provision (benefit) Loss on asset sales and inventory impairment Changes in operating assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Lease and well equipment inventory Lease and Well Equipment Inventories The increase (decrease) during the period in lease and well equipment inventory. Prepaid expenses Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Accounts payable, accrued liabilities and other current liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Royalties payable Increase (Decrease) in Royalties Payable Advances from joint interest owners Increase Decrease in Payments Made in Advance by Joint Interest Partners in Oil and Gas Properties The increase (decrease) in payments made in advance by joint interest partners in oil and gas properties. Income taxes payable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable, Net of Income Taxes Receivable Other long-term liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Deferred Liability Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from Sale of Oil and Gas Property and Equipment Proceeds from Sale of Oil and Gas Property and Equipment Oil and natural gas properties capital expenditures Payments to Explore and Develop Oil and Gas Properties Expenditures for other property and equipment Payments to Acquire Other Property, Plant, and Equipment Purchases of certificates of deposit Purchases of Certificates of Deposit Cash outflow for the purchase of certificates of deposit. Maturities of certificates of deposit Sales of Certificates of Deposit Cash inflow from the maturity of certificates of deposit. Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Repayments of borrowings under Credit Agreement Borrowings under Credit Agreement Proceeds from Lines of Credit Swing sale profit contribution Swing Sale Profit Swing Sale Profit Cost to issue equity Payments of Stock Issuance Costs Proceeds from stock options exercised Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Taxes paid related to net share settlement of stock-based compensation Settlement of Stock-based Compensation, Tax Settlement of Stock-based Compensation, Tax Payment of dividends - Class B Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Net cash provided by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Increase (decrease) in cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash at beginning of year Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash at end of year PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Reconciliations of basic and diluted distributed and undistributed earnings (loss) per common share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Summary of net deferred tax position Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Current deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets Current [Abstract] Deferred Tax Assets Current [Abstract] Property and equipment Deferred Tax Assets, Property, Plant and Equipment Unrealized loss on derivatives Deferred Tax Assets, Derivatives, Current Deferred Tax Assets, Derivatives, Current Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Total current deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross, Current Current deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities Current [Abstract] Deferred Tax Liabilities Current [Abstract] Unrealized gain on derivatives Deferred Tax Liabilities, Derivatives Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Non-current deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets Noncurrent [Abstract] Deferred Tax Assets Noncurrent [Abstract] Unrealized loss on derivatives Deferred Tax Assets, Derivative, Noncurrent Deferred Tax Assets, Derivative, Noncurrent Net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets Operating Loss Carryforwards Noncurrent Deferred tax assets operating loss carryforwards noncurrent. Alternative minimum tax carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Alternative Minimum Tax Deferred Tax Asset, Noncurrent Attributable to Percentage Depletion Carryover Deferred Tax Asset, Noncurrent Attributable to Percentage Depletion Carryover Deferred Tax Asset, Noncurrent Attributable to Percentage Depletion Carryover Total non-current deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross, Noncurrent Valuation allowance on non-current deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Total non-current deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Non-current deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent [Abstract] Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent [Abstract] Property and equipment Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Other Deferred Tax Liabilities Other Noncurrent Deferred tax liabilities other noncurrent. Total non-current deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross, Noncurrent Net non-current deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent COMMON STOCK Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of the valuation of the Company's financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Additions to asset retirement obligations and lease and well equipment inventory at fair value on a non-recurring basis Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] $8.18 - $9.90 Range [Member] Range One [Member] Range one. $10.39 - $17.80 Range [Member] Range Two [Member] Range two. $18.77 - $22.66 Range [Member] Range Three [Member] Range Three [Member] $23.40-27.58 Range [Member] Range Four [Member] Range Four [Member] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Summarized information about outstanding and exercisable stock option Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, End of Period [Abstract] Range of exercise prices, Lower limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Range of exercise prices, Upper limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Shares outstanding Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options Weighted average remaining contractual price Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted average exercise price Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Shares exercisable Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options Weighted average exercise price Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Open Swap Contract [Member] Open Swap Contract [Member] Open swap contract. Open Option Contracts Written Type [Axis] Open Option Contracts Written Type [Axis] Open Option Contracts Written Type [Domain] Open Option Contracts Written Type [Domain] Open costless collar contracts [Member] Open Costless Collar Contracts [Member] Open costless collar contracts. Natural Gas Liquids [Member] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 80 Price Floor, 100.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 80 Price Floor, 100.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 80 Price Floor, 100.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 80 Price Floor, 101.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 80 Price Floor, 101.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 80 Price Floor, 101.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 83 Price Floor, 96.12 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 83 Price Floor, 96.12 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 83 Price Floor, 96.12 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 83 Price Floor, 97.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 83 Price Floor, 97 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 83 Price Floor, 97 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 85 Price Floor, 99.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 85 Price Floor, 99.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 85 Price Floor, 99.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 85 Price Floor, 100.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 85 Price Floor, 100.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 85 Price Floor, 100.00 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 85 Price Floor, 105.10 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 85 Price Floor, 105.10 Price Ceiling [Member] [Member] Open Oil Collar Contract, 20,000 Notional Amount, 85 Price Floor, 105.10 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 200,000 Notional Amount, 4 Price Floor, 4.84 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 200,000 Notional Amount, 4.00 Price Floor, 4.84 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 200,000 Notional Amount, 4.00 Price Floor, 4.84 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 300,000 Notional Amount, 4 Price Floor, 4.93 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 300,000 Notional Amount, 4 Price Floor, 4.93 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 300,000 Notional Amount, 4 Price Floor, 4.93 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 150,000 Notional Amount, 4 Price Floor, 5.25 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 150,000 Notional Amount, 4.00 Price Floor, 5.25 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 150,000 Notional Amount, 4.00 Price Floor, 5.25 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 4.36 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 4.36 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 4.36 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 4.45 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75Price Floor, 4.45 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75Price Floor, 4.45 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 4.60 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 4.60 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 4.60 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 4.65 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 4.65 Price Ceiling [Member] [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 4.65 Price Ceiling [Member] [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 200,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 5.04 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 200,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 5.04 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 200,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 5.04 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 5.34 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 5.34 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Natural Gas Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 3.75 Price Floor, 5.34 Price Ceiling [Member] Open Propane Collar Contract, 150,000 Notional Amount, 1.000 Fixed Price [Member] NGL Propane Swap Contract, 150,000 Notional Amount, 1.000 Fixed Price [Member] NGL Propane Swap Contract, 150,000 Notional Amount, 1.000 Fixed Price [Member] Open Propane Collar Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 1.030 Fixed Price [Member] NGL Propane Swap Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 1.030 Fixed Price [Member] NGL Propane Swap Contract, 100,000 Notional Amount, 1.030 Fixed Price [Member] Open Propane Collar Contract, 68,000 Notional Amount, 1.073 Fixed Price [Member] NGL Propane Swap Contract, 68,000 Notional Amount, 1.073 Fixed Price [Member] NGL Propane Swap Contract, 68,000 Notional Amount, 1.073 Fixed Price [Member] [Member] Summary of contracts for oil and natural gas Open Costless Collar Contracts for Oil and Natural Gas [Abstract] Open costless collar contracts for oil and natural gas. Calculation Period Calculation Period for Oil and Natural Gas Calculation period for oil and natural gas. Notional Quantity Derivative Notional Quantity Derivative notional quantity. Derivative, Swap Type, Fixed Price Derivative, Swap Type, Fixed Price Price Floor Derivative, Floor Price Price Ceiling Derivative, Cap Price Fair Value of Asset (Liability) Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net 2012 Incentive Plan [Member] Weighted average assumptions used to estimate fair value of stock options granted under the Stock and Incentive Plan Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Summarized information about stock options outstanding Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Summarized information about outstanding and exercisable stock option Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Summary of the non-vested restricted stock and restricted stock units Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Common stock Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained earnings (deficit) Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury stock Parent Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning Balance Beginning Balance, shares Issuance of Class A common stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Cost to issue equity Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Stock Issued, Issuance Costs Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Units Issuance of Class A common stock to Board member and advisors Stock Issued During Period Value Common Stock to Board Members and Advisors Issuance of Class A common stock to Board members and advisors. Issuance of Class A common stock to Board member and advisors, shares Stock Issued During Period Value Common Stock to Board Members and Advisors Shares Stock issued during period value common stock to board members and advisors. Stock options expense related to equity based awards Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Requisite Service Period Recognition Stock options exercised Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Stock options exercised, shares Liability based stock option awards settled Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Forfeited Issuance of common stock Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital Change in Fair Value of Liability Based Awards Adjustments to additional paid in capital change in fair value of liability based awards. Restricted stock issued Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Gross Restricted stock issued, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross Restricted stock forfeited Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Forfeitures Restricted stock forfeited, Shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Forfeited Restricted stock and restricted stock units expense Cancellation of treasury stock Treasury Stock, Retired, Cost Method, Amount Cancellation of treasury stock (shares) Treasury Stock, Shares, Retired Swing sale profit contribution Class B dividends declared Dividends, Common Stock Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Ending Balance, shares Beginning Balance DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] SUBSEQUENT EVENTS Subsequent Events [Text Block] Supplemental Disclosures [Table] Supplemental Disclosures [Table] Supplemental disclosures. Eligible Item or Group for Fair Value Option [Axis] Eligible Item or Group for Fair Value Option [Axis] Fair Value, Option, Eligible Item or Group [Domain] Fair Value, Option, Eligible Item or Group [Domain] Accrued evaluated and unproved and unevaluated property costs [Member] Accrued Evaluated and Unproved and Unevaluated Property Costs [Member] Accrued evaluated and unproved and unevaluated property costs. Accrued support equipment and facilities costs [Member] Accrued Support Equipment and Facilities Costs [Member] Accrued support equipment and facilities costs. Accrued stock-based compensation [Member] Accrued Stock-Based Compensation [Member] Accrued stock-based compensation. Accrued lease operating expenses [Member] Accrued Lease Operating Expenses [Member] Accrued lease operating expenses. Accrued interest on borrowings under Credit Agreement [Member] Accrued Interest On Borrowings Under Credit Agreement [Member] Accrued interest on borrowings under credit agreement. Accrued asset retirement obligations [Member] Accrued Asset Retirement Obligations [Member] Accrued asset retirement obligations. Accrued partners' share of joint interest charges [Member] Accrued Partners Share Of Joint Interest Charges [Member] Accrued Partners Share Of Joint Interest Charges [Member] Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items] Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items] Supplemental disclosures. Summary of current accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Total accrued liabilities Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Domain] Other Commitments [Domain] Drilling Rig Commitments [Member] Drilling Rig Commitments [Member] Drilling Rig Commitments [Member] Construction Contracts [Member] Construction Contracts [Member] Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain] Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain] Lease agreements [Member] Lease Agreements [Member] Term Of Old Contract Drilling Rig [Member] Term Of Old Contract Drilling Rig [Member] Term Of Old Contract Drilling Rig [Member] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] Office space of headquarters Area of Land Effective base rent per square foot per year Effective Base Rent Over Term of New Lease Effective base rent over term of new lease. Rent expense, including fees for operating expenses and consumption of electricity Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Effective date of which company entered into agreement Natural Gas Processing And Transportation Agreement Initiation Date Natural gas processing and transportation agreement initiation date. Natural gas processing and transportation agreement Natural Gas Processing And Transportation Agreement Maturity Period Natural gas processing and transportation agreement maturity period. Minimum delivery commitment to avoid paying gas deficiency fee Minimum Delivery Commitment To Avoid Paying Gas Deficiency Fee Minimum delivery commitment to avoid paying gas deficiency fee. Transportation and processing fees under the agreement Gas Gathering, Transportation, Marketing and Processing Costs Term of new contract drilling rig Purchase Commitment, Description Maximum termination outstanding obligations of contracts Maximum Termination Outstanding Obligations of Contracts Maximum termination outstanding obligations of contracts. Payments for Construction in Process Payments for Construction in Process Royalty owner undivided interest in mineral Royalty Owner Undivided Interest in Minerals Royalty owner undivided interest in minerals. Summary of contracts for oil and natural gas Open Option Contracts Written [Table Text Block] Summary of offsetting assets Offsetting Assets [Table Text Block] Summary of offsetting liabilities Offsetting Liabilities [Table Text Block] Summary of location and aggregate fair value of all derivative financial instruments recorded in the consolidated statements of operations Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Summary of aggregate undiscounted minimum commitments Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Abstract] 2015 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years 2016 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years 2017 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years Total Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation NATURE OF OPERATIONS Nature of Operations [Text Block] STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Schedule of changes in Company's asset retirement obligations Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Income Tax Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in State Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in State Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in State Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Increase in valuation allowance Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount Valuation allowance against net deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] ASSET SALES AND IMPAIRMENT Asset Impairment Charges [Text Block] EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block] Computer equipment [Member] Computer Equipment [Member] Furniture [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Software [Member] Computer Software, Intangible Asset [Member] Other equipment [Member] Other Machinery and Equipment [Member] Leasehold improvements [Member] Leaseholds and Leasehold Improvements [Member] Support equipment and facilities [Member] Support Equipment and Facilities [Member] Summary of the Company's property and equipment Movement in Property, Plant and Equipment [Roll Forward] Oil and natural gas properties Oil and Gas Property [Abstract] Evaluated (subject to amortization) Unproved and unevaluated (not subject to amortization) Incurred in 2013 Capitalized Costs, Unproved Properties, Previous Twelve Months Capitalized Costs, Unproved Properties, Previous Twelve Months Incurred in 2012 Capitalized Costs, Unproved Properties, Two Years Prior Capitalized Costs, Unproved Properties, Two Years Prior Incurred in 2011 Capitalized Costs, Unproved Properties, Three Years Prior Capitalized Costs, Unproved Properties, Three Years Prior Acquisition Costs, Period Cost Acquisition Costs, Period Cost Incurred in 2010 and prior Capitalized Costs, Unproved Properties, Four Years Prior Capitalized Costs, Unproved Properties, Four Years Prior Total oil and natural gas properties Oil And Gas Property Full Cost Method Including Unproved And Unevaluated Gross Oil and gas property full cost method including unproved and unevaluated gross. Accumulated depletion Oil and Gas Property, Full Cost Method, Depletion Net oil and natural gas properties Oil and Gas Property, Full Cost Method, Net Other property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type [Abstract] Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation And Amortization Of Other Property And Equipment Accumulated depreciation and amortization of other property and equipment. Net other property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Excluding Capital Leased Assets Restricted Stock Service Based [Member] Restricted Stock Performance Based [Member] Restricted Stock Units Service Based [Member] Restricted Stock Units Performance Based [Member] Summary of non-vested stock options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Non-vested Shares, Beginning Balance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Shares Granted Shares Vested Shares Forfeited Non-vested Shares, Ending Balance Weighted average fair value, Beginning Balance Weighted average fair value, Vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted average fair value, Forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted average fair value, Ending Balance Current income tax provision (benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal alternative minimum tax Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Net current income tax provision Deferred income tax provision (benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal tax expense at statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount State income tax Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Nondeductible expense Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Amount Permanent differences Income Tax Reconciliation Permanent Differences Income tax reconciliation permanent differences. Federal alternative minimum tax Income Tax Reconciliation Income Federal Alternative Minimum Tax Income tax reconciliation income federal alternative minimum tax. Change in federal valuation allowance Change in state valuation allowance Net deferred income tax provision (benefit) Federal statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Fair value on a recurring basis [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Summary of the valuation of the Company's financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis Fair Value, Assets, Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Measured on Recurring Basis [Abstract] Oil, natural gas and NGL derivatives Total Asset (Liabilities) Fair Value Disclosure Recurring Asset (liabilities) fair value disclosure recurring. REVOLVING CREDIT AGREEMENT Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty A [Member] Counterparty A [Member] Counterparty A [Member] Counterparty B [Member] Counterparty B [Member] Counterparty B [Member] Counterparty C [Member] Counterparty C [Member] Counterparty C [Member] Counterparty D [Member] Counterparty D [Member] Counterparty D [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Current Assets [Member] Current Assets [Member] Current assets. Other assets [Member] Other Assets [Member] Current liabilities [Member] Current Liabilities [Member] Current liabilities. Long-term liabilities [Member] Long Term Liabilities [Member] Long term liabilities. Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Offsetting Derivative Assets [Abstract] Offsetting Derivative Assets [Abstract] Gross amounts of recognized assets Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Gross amounts netted in the consolidated balance sheet Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Net amounts of assets presented in the consolidated balance sheet Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Amounts subject to master netting arrangements presented on a gross basis Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Subject to Master Netting, Gross Asset Basis Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Subject to Master Netting, Gross Asset Basis Offsetting Derivative Liabilities [Abstract] Offsetting Derivative Liabilities [Abstract] Gross amounts of recognized liabilities Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Gross amounts netted in the consolidated balance sheet Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Net amounts of liabilities presented in the consolidated balance sheet Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Amounts subject to master netting arrangements presented on a gross basis Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Subject to Master Netting, Gross Liability Basis Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Subject to Master Netting, Gross Liability Basis Schedule of future minimum lease payments required under the office lease agreement Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable [Abstract] 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and entity information. Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding