Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligations Reconciliation Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block] Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Senior Secured Second Lien Notes Due 2020 [Member] Senior Secured Second Lien Notes Due 2020 [Member] Senior Secured Second Lien Notes Due 2020 Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Linn Energy, LLC Linn Energy, LLC [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior Secured Notes [Member] Senior Secured Notes [Member] Collateralized senior debt obligation backed by, for example, but not limited to, pledge, mortgage or other lien on the entity's assets. In the event the issuer goes bankrupt, senior secured debt holders receive priority for (must receive) repayment prior to (relative to) junior and unsecured (general) creditors, and rank equal with all existing and future senior debt, without giving effect to any collateral arrangements. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Par Value of Senior Notes Exchanged Senior Notes Exchanged The aggregate value of senior notes exchanged for senior secured second lien notes. Cash payments for interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Net Cash payments for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Joint-venture funding Future Funding Commitment Of Joint Venture Consideration Transferred, Excluding Interest Total consideration transferred towards the future funding commitment on joint venture, excluding interest imputed at the time of acquisition. Noncash investing and financing activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] In connection with the acquisition of oil and natural gas properties and joint-venture funding, assets were acquired and liabilities were assumed as follow: Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Value of Liabilities Assumed [Abstract] Fair value of assets acquired Fair Value of Assets Acquired Cash paid, net of cash acquired PaymentsToAcquireOilAndGasPropertyAndEquipmentLessDeposits The cash outflow to purchase long lived physical asset for use in the normal oil and gas operations and to purchase mineral interests in oil and gas properties not intended for resale, less deposits for acquisitions. Units issued in connection with the Berry acquisition Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions Noncash gains on exchanges of properties Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Oil and Gas Property Receivables from sellers Noncash Or Part Noncash Acquisition Receivable From Seller The amount of receivable from the seller recorded in a business or asset acquisition that was partially a noncash transaction. Noncash is defined as information about all investing and financing activities of an enterprise during a period that affect recognized assets or liabilities but that do not result in cash receipts or payments. Payables to sellers Noncash Or Part Noncash Acquisition Payable To Seller The amount of payable to the seller recorded in a business or asset acquisition that was partially a noncash transaction. Noncash is defined as information about all investing and financing activities of an enterprise during a period that affect recognized assets or liabilities but that do not result in cash receipts or payments. Liabilities assumed Liabilities Assumed Accrued capital expenditures Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract] Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Cumulative Percentage Ownership after All Transactions Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Cumulative Percentage Ownership after All Transactions Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Offerings [Table] Schedule of Equity Offerings [Table] Schedule of Equity Offerings [Table] Equity Offering [Axis] Equity Offering [Axis] Equity Offering Equity Offering [Domain] Equity Offering [Domain] [Domain] for Equity Offering At-the-Market Offering Program [Member] At-the-Market Offering Program [Member] At-the-Market Offering Program Public Offering of Units [Member] Public Offering of Units [Member] Public Offering of Units Schedule of Equity Offerings [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Offerings [Line Items] [Line Items] for Schedule of Equity Offerings [Table] Equity Offering Program Maximum Value Equity Offering Program Maximum Value Maximum value of units that can be issued and sold under an equity offering agreement. Sale of units, net of offering costs (in units) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Stock issued during period, sales price per unit Stock issued during period, sales price per unit Stock issued during period, sales price per unit. Public Offering Price Per Unit Net Public Offering Price Per Unit Net Price per unit received as part of public offering of units, net of underwriting discount. Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Investment Banking, Advisory, Brokerage, and Underwriting Fees and Commissions Investment Banking, Advisory, Brokerage, and Underwriting Fees and Commissions Professional Fees Professional Fees EquityOfferingProgramRemainingBalance EquityOfferingProgramRemainingBalance Remaining value of units that can be issued and sold under an equity offering agreement Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] LinnCo LinnCo [Member] LinnCo [Member] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Berry Berry [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Exchange ratio Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Exchange Ratio Ratio of shares of equity interests issued or issuable to acquire entity. LinnCo common shares issued to acquire Berry Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares LINN Energy units issued to LinnCo for LinnCo common shares issued Value of units issued to acquire Berry Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Value Assigned Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingency, Estimate [Abstract] Loss Contingency, Estimate [Abstract] Litigation Settlement, Amount Litigation Settlement, Amount Proceeds from Legal Settlements Proceeds from Legal Settlements Payments for Legal Settlements Payments for Legal Settlements Other Accrued Liabilities Other Current Liabilities [Table Text Block] Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Schedule of Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] Schedule of Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Restricted Cash for Debt Agreement [Member] Restricted Cash for Debt Agreement [Member] Restricted cash posted in association with a debt agreement. Restricted Cash for ARO [Member] Restricted Cash for ARO [Member] Restricted cash required for asset retirement obligations. Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items] Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Accrued compensation Employee-related Liabilities, Current Asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation, Current Other Other Current Accrued Liabilities Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred through that date and payable arising from transactions not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Other accrued liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Net Outstanding Checks Net Outstanding Checks Net outstanding checks at the balance sheet date, which are included in "accounts payable and accrued expenses" on the balance sheet. Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Transaction [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Gas Gathering and Processing Equipment [Member] Gas Gathering and Processing Equipment [Member] Building and Building Improvements [Member] Building and Building Improvements [Member] Vehicles [Member] Vehicles [Member] Upstream Equipment [Member] Upstream Equipment [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Land [Member] Land [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Other property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross Less accumulated depreciation Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Accumulated Depreciation Other property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Net Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share Reconciliation Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Unit Based Compensation and Other Benefit Plans [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Domain] Vesting [Domain] Tranche One Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member] Tranche Two Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Unit Options [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Restricted Unrestricted Units [Member] Restricted Unrestricted Units [Member] Restricted/unrestricted units as awarded by a company to their employees as a form of incentive compensation. Performance Units [Member] Performance Shares [Member] Restricted Units [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Share-based Payments, by Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual with Relationship to Entity [Domain] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Nonemployee [Member] Nonemployee [Member] Certain individuals considered as not employee of the entity. Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] General and Administrative Expense [Member] General and Administrative Expense [Member] Lease Operating Expense [Member] Operating Expense [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability Classified, Settlements Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability Classified, Settlements Aggregate cash settlements of liabilities for stock plans and other equity based compensation arrangements. Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Classified, Noncurrent Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Classified, Noncurrent Berry employee unit-based awards Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Value Assigned, Unit Based Awards Value of equity interests (such as common shares, preferred shares, or partnership interest) issued or issuable to acquire the entity related to unit based awards. Awards vesting period (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Award vesting rights Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage Contractual life of unit options (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Contractual Term Contractual term for option awards, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Number of shares available for grant (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Units authorized for issuance (in units) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Number Of Shares Issuable The number of units issuable under the plan pursuant to outstanding award or other agreements. Units reserved for future issuance (in units) Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Allocated Share Based Compensation Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Income tax benefit Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Restricted/Unrestricted Nonvested Units [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Nonvested units, beginning (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Nonvested units, ending (in units) Outstanding, beginning (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding, ending (in dollars per unit) Restricted/Unrestricted Units [Abstract] Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share-Based Payment Award Restricted Unrestricted Units [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Fair value of units vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Unrecognized compensation cost recognition period (in years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Unit Options Activity [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding, beginning (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Forfeited or expired (in units) Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Forfeited or Expired Value of forfeitures of stock or expired stock or other type of equity issued of any equity-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Outstanding, ending (in units) Exercisable (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Unit [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Unit [Abstract] Outstanding, beginning (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited or expired (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding, ending (in dollars per unit) Exercisable (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term [Abstract] Outstanding, beginning (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Outstanding, ending (in years) Exercisable (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Unit [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Unit [Abstract] Weighted average grant date fair value of options granted (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Change in Unit Options and Unit Options Outstanding [Abstract] Change in Unit Options and Unit Options Outstanding [Abstract] Intrinsic value of options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Intrinsic value of outstanding unit options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Intrinsic value of exercisable unit options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Minimum Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Maximum Expected distributions Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Risk-free rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum Risk-free rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Maximum Expected term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Nonemployee Grants [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Nonemployee Grants [Abstract] Unit warrants oustanding (in units) Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Shares Oustanding The number of shares issued and outstanding pursuant to the terms of the deferred compensation plan as of the balance sheet date. Exercise price of unit warrants (in dollars per unit) Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Exercise Price Defined Contribution Plan [Abstract] Defined Contribution Plan [Abstract] Entity's matching contribution (in hundredths) Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Participant's eligible contribution, (in hundredths) Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Unsettled Derivative Instruments [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivatives, by Annual Hedged Volumes and Prices [Axis] Derivatives By Annual Hedged Volumes And Prices [Axis] Information pertinent to an understanding of a derivative or group of derivatives on a disaggregated basis, such as for individual instruments, or small groups of similar instruments, by such instrument or grouping. By annual production volume period. Deriviatives By Annual Period [Domain] Deriviatives By Annual Period [Domain] The years for which open commodity derivative positions settle. 2016 Year 2016 [Member] Hedged production volumes and average prices by year, period six. 2017 Year 2017 [Member] Hedged production volumes and average prices by year, period seven. 2018 Year 2018 [Member] 2019 Year 2019 [Member] Year 2019 [Member] Derivative, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative By Risk [Axis] Information pertinent to an understanding of a derivative or group of derivatives on a disaggregated basis, such as for individual instruments, or small groups of similar instruments, by such instrument or grouping. By contract risk type. Derivative, by Risk [Domain] Deriviative By Risk [Domain] The types of derivatives or groups of derivatives. Natural Gas Derivative Instruments Natural Gas Commodity Contract [Member] Derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to natural gas commodity prices. Oil Derivative Instruments Oil Commodity Contract [Member] Derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to crude oil commodity prices. Natural Gas Basis Differential Positions Natural Gas Basis Differential Commodity Contract [Member] Derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to natural gas commodity prices to hedge basis differentials. Oil Timing Differential Positions Oil timing differential positions [Member] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Fixed price swaps Swap [Member] Puts Puts [Member] Total information on all put contracts for each year. Panhandle basis swaps Panhandle Basis Swaps [Member] NWPL - Rockies basis swaps NWPL - Rockies basis swaps [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- MichCon basis swaps MichCon Basis Swaps [Member] Houston Ship Channel basis swaps Houston Ship Channel Basis Swaps [Member] Permian basis swaps Permian Basis Swaps [Member] SoCal basis swaps [Member] SoCal basis swaps [Member] SoCal basis swaps Trade month roll swaps Trade month roll swaps [Member] Extendible Fixed Price Swaps Extendable Fixed Price Swaps [Member] Position [Axis] Position [Axis] Position [Domain] Position [Domain] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Hedged Volume (in energy unit) Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount Average Fixed Price (in usd per energy unit) Derivative, Swap Type, Average Fixed Price Cash settlements on canceled derivatives Cash Settlements on Canceled Derivatives The cash received or paid during the period for derivative instruments canceled before the settlement date. Average Price (in usd per energy unit) Derivative, Average Price Risk Option Strike Price Hedged Differential (in usd per energy unit) Hedged Differential The hedged differential amount. Amount of outstanding extendible fixed price oil swaps of daily production (in MBbls) Daily Oil Production Covered By Extendible Fixed Price Swaps Amount of daily production covered by extendible fixed price oil swaps. Volumes of natural gas production on settled derivatives (in MMMbtu) Volume Of Natural Gas Production On Settled Derivatives Volumes of natural gas production on settled derivatives Average contract price per MMBtu on settled derivatives Average Contract Price On Natural Gas Settled Derivatives Per Unit Average contract price per MMBtu on settled natural gas derivatives Volumes of oil production on settled derivatives (in MBbls) Volume Of Oil On Settled Derivatives Volumes of oil on settled derivatives Average contract price per barrel on settled derivatives Average Contract Price On Oil Settled Derivatives Per Unit Average contract price per barrel of settled oil derivatives Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Amount of potential debt acceleration Amount of potential debt acceleration Amount of debt to be potentially accelerated at creditor's discretion in the event of default due to a failure to meet financial covenants and ratios. Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Capitalized interest costs Interest Costs Capitalized Natural gas production imbalance payables Gas Balancing Payable, Current Deferred Finance Costs, Current, Net Deferred Finance Costs, Current, Net Net deferred financing fees Deferred Finance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Debt issuance fees amortization expense Amortization of Financing Costs Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Gas Balancing Asset (Liability) Gas Balancing Asset (Liability) Impairment of Leasehold Impairment of Leasehold Credit Facility [Member] Credit Facility [Member] This element contains information about borrowings under the credit facility. Senior Notes Due 2022 Senior Notes Due 2022 [Member] Senior Notes Due September 2021 Senior Notes Due September 2021 [Member] Senior Notes Due September 2021 [Member] Senior Notes Due February 2021 [Member] Senior Notes Due February 2021 [Member] Senior Notes Due February 2021 [Member] Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Percent of aggregate outstanding debt Percent of aggregate outstanding debt In and event of default, creditors of the percent of aggregate outstanding principal amount of each series of debt required to accelerate debt causing it to become immediately due and payable. Deferred interest payment Deferred interest payment Interest payment deferred subject to applicable grace period. Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Useful lives of other property and equipment (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Impairment Of Unproved Oil And Gas Properties Impairment Of Unproved Oil And Gas Properties The expense recorded to reduce the value of oil and natural gas assets consisting of unproved properties as the estimate of future successful production from these properties is reduced. Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flow from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net loss Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation, depletion and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Impairment of long-lived assets Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties Unit-based compensation expenses Share-based Compensation (Gain) loss on extinguishment of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Amortization and write-off of deferred financing fees Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts (Gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net Gains Losses on sale of assets and other, net Gain or loss recognized on sale of property and other; includes oil and gas property and other items. Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Derivatives activities: Derivatives Activities [Abstract] Total gains Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net Cash settlements Cash Settlements On Derivatives The cash settlements from derivative instruments received or paid during the period. Changes in assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Decrease in accounts receivable – trade, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable (Increase) decrease in other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Decrease in other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flow from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Acquisition of oil and natural gas properties and joint-venture funding, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Oil and Gas Property and Equipment Development of oil and natural gas properties Payments to Explore and Develop Oil and Gas Properties Purchases of other property and equipment Payments to Acquire Other Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from sale of properties and equipment and other Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flow from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from sale of units Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Proceeds from borrowings Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayments of debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Distributions to unitholders Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Cash Distributions Paid Financing fees and offering costs Payment of Financing and Stock Issuance Costs Excess tax benefit from unit-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Excess tax benefit from unit-based compensation Excess tax deficit from share based compensation, financing activities Excess tax deficit from share based compensation, financing activities Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents: Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract] Beginning Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Ending Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract] Quarterly financial data Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Servicing Assets and Servicing Liabilities Risk [Axis] Servicing Assets and Servicing Liabilities Risk [Axis] Risks Inherent in Servicing Assets and Servicing Liabilities, Type [Domain] Risks Inherent in Servicing Assets and Servicing Liabilities, Type [Domain] Credit Risk [Member] Credit Risk [Member] Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] Customer 1 [Member] Customer 1 [Member] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Sales [Member] Sales [Member] Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Total number of largest customers represented in sales Total Number Of Largest Customers Represented In Sales The total number of the entity's largest customers comprising over 10% of sales based on entity's total sales during the period. Concentration risk percentage (in hundredths) Concentration Risk, Percentage Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Unit-Based Compensation and Other Benefit Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Derivatives Outstanding on a Gross Basis by Location on the Balance Sheet Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Senior Notes Due May 2019 Senior Notes Due May 2019 [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Pioneer Assets Acquisition [Member] Pioneer Assets Acquisition [Member] Pioneer Assets Acquisition [Member] Devon Assets Acquisition [Member] Devon Assets Acquisition [Member] Devon Assets Acquisition Business Acquisition Anadarko Business Acquisition Anadarko [Member] Business Acquisition, Berry Business Acquisition, Berry [Member] Business Acquisition, Berry [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Future funding commitment of joint venture consideration transferred Future Funding Commitment Of Joint Venture Consideration Transferred Total consideration transferred towards the future funding commitment on join venture. Future Funding Of Joint Venture Agreement Future Funding Of Joint Venture Agreement Amount of future funding for joint venture agreement. Business Acqusition, Fair Value Business Acqusition, Fair Value Business Acqusition, Fair Value Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Linn Energy, LLC Parent Company [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiary Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Reportable Legal Entities Reportable Legal Entities [Member] Eliminations Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Gain loss on sale of assets and other, net Gain loss on sale of assets and other, net Gain or loss on sale of assets and other, net Equity in earnings from consolidated subsidiaries Equity in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries Equity in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries. Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total gains Increase in accounts receivable – affiliates Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable, Related Parties Decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses – affiliates Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Related Parties Increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses – affiliates Investment in affiliates Investment in Affiliates The cash flow related to the contribution of acquired affiliates. Change in notes receivable with affiliate Increase (Decrease) in Due from Related Parties Repayment of Notes Receivable from Related Parties Repayment of Notes Receivable from Related Parties Repayments of Long-term Debt Payment of Financing and Stock Issuance Costs Change in note payable with affiliate Increase (Decrease) in Due to Related Parties Proceeds from Contributions from Parent Proceeds from Contributions from Parent Payments of Distributions to Affiliates Payments of Distributions to Affiliates Proceeds from (Repayments of) Related Party Debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Related Party Debt Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Accounts receivable – trade, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Accounts receivable – affiliates Due from Related Parties, Current Derivative instruments Derivative Asset, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Noncurrent assets: Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Oil and natural gas properties (successful efforts method) Oil and Gas Property, Successful Effort Method, Gross Less accumulated depletion and amortization Oil and Gas Property, Successful Effort Method, Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Oil and natural gas properties, successful efforts method, net Oil and Gas Property, Successful Effort Method, Net Derivative instruments Derivative Asset, Noncurrent Notes receivable – affiliates Due from Related Parties, Noncurrent Advance to affiliate Advances to Affiliate Investments in consolidated subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Other noncurrent assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Noncurrent assets, excluding property, total Noncurrent assets, excluding property, total Total noncurrent assets excluding oil and gas properties and other property and equipment. Total noncurrent assets Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND UNITHOLDERS’ CAPITAL (DEFICIT) Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable and accrued expenses Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Accounts payable – affiliates Due to Related Parties, Current Advance from affiliate Notes Payable, Related Parties, Current Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Current Other accrued liabilities Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Noncurrent liabilities: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Notes payable – affiliates Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Noncurrent Total long-term debt, net Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total noncurrent liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent 355,017,428 units and 331,974,913 units issued and outstanding at December 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014, respectively Common Unit, Issuance Value Unitholders’ capital (deficit): Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Accumulated income (deficit) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total unitholders' capital (deficit) Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total liabilities and unitholders’ capital (deficit) Liabilities and Equity Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Common Unit, Issued Common Unit, Issued Common Unit, Outstanding Common Unit, Outstanding Net loss Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Allocated to participating securities Net Income Loss Allocated To Participating Nonvested Shares With Nonforfeitable Dividend Rights This element represents the (income) loss allocated to nonvested share-based payment awards that contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents (whether paid or unpaid). Basic and diluted earnings per share are generally disclosed for such shares using the two-class method. Net loss attributable to common unitholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Earnings per share reconciliation Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract] Basic net loss per unit Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Diluted net loss per unit Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Weighted average units outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic weighted average units outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect of unit equivalents Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Diluted weighted average units outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Schedule of anti-dilutive securities Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Unit options and warrants Unit Options And Warrants [Member] Incremental units attributable to unit options and warrants that were not included in diluted earnings per share (EPS) because to do so would increase EPS amounts or decrease loss per share amounts for the period presented. A contract that gives the holder the right, but not the obligation, either to purchase or to sell a certain number of shares of stock at a predetermined price for a specified period of time. Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Weighted average anti-dilutive unit equivalents excluded from computation of earnings per unit (in units) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Leases, Operating [Abstract] Operating Leases Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block] Future Minimum Lease Payments Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Senior Notes Due 2021 Senior Notes Due 2021 [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Senior Notes Due 2020 Senior Notes Due 2020 [Member] This element contains information about borrowings under the senior notes due 2020. Senior Notes Due November 2019 Senior Notes Due November 2019 [Member] Senior Notes Due April 2020 [Member] Senior Notes Due April 2020 [Member] This element contains information about borrowings under the senior notes due April 2020. Senior Notes Due November 2020 [Member] Senior Notes Due November 2020 [Member] Senior Notes Due November 2020 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Gains (Losses) on Restructuring of Debt Gains (Losses) on Restructuring of Debt Troubled Debt Restructuring, Debtor, Current Period, Gain (Loss) on Restructuring, Per Share, Net Troubled Debt Restructuring, Debtor, Current Period, Gain (Loss) on Restructuring, Per Share, Net Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flow Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Carrying Value Long-term Debt, Current and Noncurrent [Abstract] Credit facilities Long-term Line of Credit Term loan Senior Secured Term Loan The current and long term portion of Senior Secured Term Loans. Senior secured second lien notes Secured Debt Interest payable on second lien notes Remaining Interest Payments on Troubled Debt Remaining interest payments recorded on the balance sheet as part of a troubled debt restructuring. Senior notes, net Senior Notes Total debt, net Fair Value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Credit facilities Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Term loan Loans Payable, Fair Value Disclosure Senior secured second lien notes Secured Debt, Fair Value Disclosure Fair value disclosure of secured debt Interest payable on second lien notes Remaining interest on second lien notes, fair value disclosure Remaining interest on second lien notes, fair value disclosure Senior notes, net Senior Notes, Fair Value Fair value disclosure of senior notes Total debt, net Long-term Debt, Fair Value Components of income tax expense (benefit) Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Effective income tax rate reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Significant components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Classification of net deferred tax assets and liabilities in consolidated balance sheets Classification of Net Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities in Consolidated Balance Sheets [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the classification of net deferred tax assets and liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. Nature of Business Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Going Concern Uncertainty Substantial Doubt about Going Concern [Text Block] Principles of Consolidation and Reporting Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently Issued Accounting Standards New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts Receivable - Trade, Net Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventories Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Oil and Natural Gas Properties Oil and Gas Properties Policy [Policy Text Block] Oil and Natural Gas Properties Full Cost or Successful Efforts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment of Oil and Natural Gas Properties Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Unproved Properties Disclosure [Table Text Block] Unproved Properties Disclosure [Table Text Block] Other Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Unit-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Deferred Financing Fees Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Industries Disclosures [Abstract] Cost Incurred in Oil and Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration, and Development Cost Incurred in Oil and Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration, and Development Activities Disclosure [Table Text Block] Capitalized Costs Relating to Oil, Natural Gas and NGL Producing Activities Capitalized Costs Relating to Oil and Gas Producing Activities Disclosure [Table Text Block] Results of Operations for Oil and Gas Producing Activities Results of Operations for Oil and Gas Producing Activities Disclosure [Table Text Block] Estimated Quantities of Oil, Natural Gas and NGL Reserves Schedule of Proved Developed and Undeveloped Oil and Gas Reserve Quantities [Table Text Block] Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows and Changes Therein Relating to Proved Reserves Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Cash Flows Relating to Proved Reserves Disclosure [Table Text Block] Principal Sources of Change in Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flow Schedule of Changes in Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Future inflation factor used in the calculation of the asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation Future Inflation Factor The inflation rate used to calculate the present value of the asset retierment obligations. Credit adjusted risk-free interest rate for the calculation of the asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation Risk Free Interest Rate The risk-free interest rate assumption that is used in valuing the asset retirement obligations. Asset retirement obligations rollforward Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Asset retirement obligations at beginning of year Asset Retirement Obligation Liabilities added from acquisitions Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Added From Acquisitions Amount of asset retirement obligations added during the period from the acquisition of additional oil and natural gas properties. This may include asset retirement obligations transferred from third parties associated with the purchase of a long-lived assets. Liabilities added from drilling Asset Retirement Obligation Liabilities Added From Drilling Amount of asset retirement obligations added during the period from drilling. Liabilities associated with assets divested Asset Retirement Obligations, Liabilities Associated With Assets Sold Amount of asset retirement obligations transferred to third parties associated with the sale of a long-lived asset during the period. Current year accretion expense Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Settlements Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Settled Revision of estimates Asset Retirement Obligation, Revision of Estimate Asset retirement obligations at end of year Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Oil and Gas and Timber Property [Abstract] Howard County [Member] Howard County [Member] Howard County XOM II Exchange [Member] XOM II Exchange [Member] The second property exchange completed with XOM. XOM I Exchange [Member] XOM I Exchange [Member] The first properties exchange with XOM. Granite Wash Assets Sale [Member] Granite Wash Assets Sale [Member] Granite Wash Assets Sale Permian Basin Assets Sale [Member] Permian Basin Assets Sale [Member] Permian Basin Assets Sale STACK acreage divestiture [Member] STACK acreage divestiture [Member] STACK acreage divestiture Costs Associated With Sale of Oil and Gas Property and Equipment Costs Associated With Sale of Oil and Gas Property and Equipment The costs associated with the disposal of long-lived, physical assets and mineral interests in oil and gas properties used for normal oil and gas operations, netted against proceeds received. Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Oil and Gas Property Proceeds from sale of oil and natural gas property Proceeds from Sale of Oil and Gas Property and Equipment Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Costs Incurred in Oil and Natural Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration and Development Activities Costs Incurred, Oil and Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration, and Development Activities [Abstract] Property acquisition costs: (1) Costs Incurred, Acquisition of Oil and Gas Properties [Abstract] Proved Costs Incurred, Acquisition of Oil and Gas Properties with Proved Reserves Unproved Costs Incurred, Acquisition of Unproved Oil and Gas Properties Exploration costs Costs Incurred, Exploration Costs Development costs Costs Incurred, Development Costs Asset retirement costs Costs Incurred, Asset Retirement Obligation Incurred Total costs incurred Costs Incurred, Oil and Gas Properties, Acquisition, Exploration costs, Development Costs Cost incurred, including capitalized costs and costs charged to expense, in acquisition, exploration costs, and development costs related to of oil and gas properties. Oil and Natural Gas Capitalized Costs Capitalized Costs, Oil and Gas Producing Activities, Gross [Abstract] Proved properties: Capitalized Costs, Oil and Gas Producing Activities, Proved Properties [Abstract] Leasehold acquisition Capitalized Costs, Mineral Interests in Proved Properties Development Capitalized Costs, Wells and Related Equipment and Facilities Unproved properties Capitalized Costs, Unproved Properties Capitalized cost, oil and gas producing activities Capitalized Costs, Oil and Gas Producing Activities, Gross Less accumulated depletion and amortization Capitalized Costs, Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion, Amortization and Valuation Allowance Relating to Oil and Gas Producing Activities Capitalized costs, oil and gas producing activities, net Capitalized Costs, Oil and Gas Producing Activities, Net Results of Oil and Natural Gas Producing Activities Results of Operations, Oil and Gas Producing Activities Net Income (Excluding Corporate Overhead and Interest Costs) [Abstract] Revenues and other: Results of Operations, Revenue from Oil and Gas Producing Activities [Abstract] Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids sales Results of Operations, Sales Revenue to Unaffiliated Enterprises Gains on oil and natural gas derivatives Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net, Excluding LOE Amount of realized and unrealized gain (loss) of derivative instruments not designated or qualifying as hedging instruments, excluding commodity derivatives used to hedge natural gas consumption recorded to lease operating expenses in the statements of operations. Results of Operations, Revenue from Oil and Gas Producing Activities Results of Operations, Revenue from Oil and Gas Producing Activities Production costs: Results of Operations, Expense from Oil and Gas Producing Activities [Abstract] Lease operating expenses Results of Operations, Production or Lifting Costs Transportation expenses Results of Operations, Transportation Costs Severance taxes, ad valorem taxes and California carbon allowances Result of operation, severance and ad valorem taxes and CCA Severance and ad valorem taxes from oil and gas producing activities. Results of Operations, Expense from Oil and Gas Producing Activities Results of Operations, Expense from Oil and Gas Producing Activities Other costs: Results Of Operations Expense From Oil And Gas Producing Activities Other Costs [Abstract] Exploration costs Results of Operations, Exploration Expense Depletion and amortization Results of Operations, Depreciation, Depletion, Amortization and Accretion Impairment of long-lived assets Results of Operations, Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties Gains on sale of assets and other, net Results Of Operations Gains Losses On Sale Of Assets And Other Net The gains and losses on sale of assets and other, net from oil and natural gas producing activities. Texas margin tax expense (benefit) Results of Operations, Income Tax Expense Total other costs Results of Operations, Expense, Total other cost The total amount of costs, excluding production costs, related to oil and gas producing activities. Results of operations Results of Operations, Oil and Gas Producing Activities Net Income (Excluding Corporate Overhead and Interest Costs) Proved Oil, Natural Gas and NGL Reserves Proved Developed and Undeveloped Oil and Gas Reserve Quantities [Table] Reserve Quantities by Type of Reserve [Axis] Petroleum Reserves [Axis] Type of Reserve [Domain] Type of Reserve [Domain] Natural Gas (Bcf) Natural Gas [Member] Oil (MMBbls) Oil [Member] NGL (MMBbls) Natural Gas Liquids [Member] Proved Oil, Natural Gas and NGL Reserves Reserve Quantities [Line Items] Proved developed and undeveloped reserves: Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves [Roll Forward] Beginning of year Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Net Beginning of year Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserve, Net (Energy) Revisions of previous estimates Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Revisions of Previous Estimates Revisions of previous estimates Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserve, Revision of Previous Estimate (Energy) Purchases of minerals in place Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Purchases of Minerals in Place Purchases of minerals in place Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserve, Purchase of Mineral in Place (Energy) Sales of minerals in place Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Sales of Minerals in Place Sales of minerals in place Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Sale of Mineral in Place (Energy) Extensions, discoveries and other additions Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Extensions, Discoveries, and Additions Extensions, discoveries and other additions Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserve, Extension and Discovery (Energy) Production Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserves, Production Production Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserve, Production (Energy) End of year End of year Proved developed reserves: Proved developed reserves [Abstract] Beginning of year Proved Developed Reserves (Volume) Beginning of year Proved Developed Reserves (Energy) End of year End of year Proved undeveloped reserves: Proved undeveloped reserves [Abstract] Beginning of year Proved Undeveloped Reserve (Volume) Beginning of year Proved Undeveloped Reserves (Energy) End of year End of year Conversion rate between oil and NGL volumes to natural gas Conversion Rate Of Oil And Ngl Quantities Conversion rate for changes in estimated quantities of oil and NGL reserves. Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserve, Net (Energy), Period Increase (Decrease) Proved Developed and Undeveloped Reserve, Net (Energy), Period Increase (Decrease) Change in proved reserves due to change in commodity prices (in Mcfe) Change In Proved Reserves Due To Commodity Prices The increase or decrease in estimated quantity of oil and natural gas proved reserves due the increase or decrease in commodity prices during the period. Change in proved reserves due to the uncertainty of future capital commitments Change in proved reserves due to the uncertainty of future capital commitments Change in proved reserves due to the uncertainty of future capital commitments Change in proved reserves due to the SEC five-year development limitation on PUDs Change in proved reserves due to the SEC five-year development limitation on PUDs The increase or decrease in estimated quantity of oil and natural gas proved reserves due to the SEC five-year development limitation on PUDs Change in proved reserves due to asset performance (in Mcfe) Change in proved reserves due to asset performance The increase or decrease in estimated quantity of oil and natural gas proved reserves due asset performance during the period. Productive wells drilled Wells Drilled Net Productive The number of productive wells drilled in the geographic area. A productive well is a well that is not a dry well. The number of wells drilled refers to the number of wells (holes) completed at any time during the fiscal years, regardless when drilling was initiated. Change in proved reserves due to ethane rejection Change in proved reserves due to ethane rejection The increase or decrease in estimated quantity of oil and natural gas proved reserves due to ethane rejection. Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Net Cash Flows [Abstract] Future estimated revenues Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Cash Inflows Future estimated production costs Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Production Costs Future estimated development costs Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Development Costs Future net cash flows Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Net Cash Flows 10% annual discount for estimated timing of cash flows Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Ten Percent Annual Discount for Estimated Timing of Cash Flows Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves Representative NYMEX prices: (1) Representative NYMEX prices [Abstract] Natural gas (MMBtu) Representative NYMEX Price, Natural Gas In accordance with SEC regulations, natural gas reserves were estimated using the average price during the 12 month period, determined as an unweighted average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month, unless prices are defined by contractual arrangements, excluding escalations based upon future conditions. The price used to estimate reserves is held constant over the life of the reserves. Oil (Bbl) Representative NYMEX Price, Oil In accordance with SEC regulations, oil reserves were estimated using the average price during the 12 month period, determined as an unweighted average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month, unless prices are defined by contractual arrangements, excluding escalations based upon future conditions. The price used to estimate reserves is held constant over the life of the reserves. Principal Sources of Change in Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flow Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves [Abstract] Principal Sources of Change in Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flow Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves [Abstract] Sales and transfers of oil, natural gas and NGL produced during the period Sales and Transfers of Oil and Gas Produced, Net of Production Costs Changes in estimated future development costs Changes in Estimated Future Development Costs Net change in sales and transfer prices and production costs related to future production Net Increase (Decrease) in Sales and Transfer Prices and Production Costs Purchases of minerals in place Increase Due to Purchases of Minerals in Place Sales of minerals in place Decrease Due to Sales of Minerals in Place Extensions, discoveries and improved recovery Extensions, Discoveries, Additions and Improved Recovery, Less Related Costs Previously estimated development costs incurred during the period Previously Estimated Development Costs Incurred Net change due to revisions in quantity estimates Revisions of Previous Quantity Estimates Accretion of discount Accretion of Discount Changes in production rates and other Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flow of Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Other Change in the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flow of Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, Period Increase (Decrease) Components of income tax benefit (expense) from continuing operations [Abstract] Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current taxes: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred taxes: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax expense (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Federal [Member] Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Material Uncertain Tax Position Liability for Uncertain Tax Positions, Noncurrent Net operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Net operating loss carryforwards, expiration dates Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date Effective income tax rate reconciliation [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] Federal statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent State, net of federal tax benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Loss excluded from nontaxable entities Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Exempt Income, Percent Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities [Abstract] Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Unit-based compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax liabilities: Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] Property and equipment principally due to differences in depreciation Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Net deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Net deferred tax assets and liabilities classified in consolidated balance sheets [Abstract] Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Classification [Abstract] Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Other current assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross, Noncurrent Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross, Noncurrent Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Revenues and other: Revenues [Abstract] Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids sales Oil and Gas Revenue Marketing revenues Gas Gathering, Transportation, Marketing and Processing Revenue Other revenues Other Revenue, Net Total revenues Revenues Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Lease operating expenses Oil and Gas Property, Lease Operating Expense Marketing expenses Gas Gathering, Transportation, Marketing and Processing Costs General and administrative expenses General and Administrative Expense Exploration costs Exploration Expense Taxes, other than income taxes Taxes, Miscellaneous (Gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets Total expenses Costs and Expenses Other income and (expenses): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized Interest Expense Interest expense – affiliates Interest Expense, Related Party Interest income – affiliates Interest Income, Related Party Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt Equity in earnings from consolidated subsidiaries Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total other income and (expenses) Nonoperating Income (Expense) Loss before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense (benefit) Net loss Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Assets: Derivative Asset [Abstract] Commodity derivatives Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Commodity derivatives Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Commodity derivatives Derivative Asset Liabilities: Derivative Liability [Abstract] Commodity derivatives Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Commodity derivatives Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Commodity derivatives Derivative Liability Employee Service Share-Based Compensation Expense Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Nonvested Units Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Unit Options Activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Valuation Assumptions Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Other Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Significant Customers Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Other Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Granite Wash formation [Member] Granite Wash formation [Member] Granite Wash formation Rockies region Rockies operating region [Member] Rockies operating region Hugoton Basin region Hugoton Basin Operating Region [Member] Hugoton Basin Operating Region California region California operating region [Member] California operating region TexLa region TexLa operating region [Member] TexLa operating region Mid-Continent region Mid-Continent operating region [Member] Mid-Continent operating region Permian Basin region Permian Basin Operating Region [Member] Permian Basin Operating Region [Member] South Texas region South Texas operating region [Member] South Texas operating region Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items] Impairment of proved oil and gas properties Impairment of proved oil and gas properties The expense recorded to reduce the value of proved oil and gas assets consisting of proved properties and unproved properties as the estimate of future successful production from these properties is reduced. Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Supplemental Oil and Natural Gas Data (Unaudited) Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Industries Disclosures [Text Block] Subsidiary Guarantors Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Supplemental Quarterly Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Costs Incurred by Period [Axis] Costs Incurred by Period [Axis] Period in which LinnCo costs, which are paid by LINN, are incurred. Costs Incurred by Period [Domain] Costs Incurred by Period [Domain] [Domain] for Period in which LinnCo costs, which are paid by LINN, are incurred. FY 2013 [Member] FY 2013 [Member] LinnCo costs by year, paid by LINN. Director Director [Member] Ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage General and administrative expenses General and administrative expenses paid on behalf of related party General and Administrative Expenses Paid on Behalf of Related Party General and administrative expenses paid on behalf of related party. Third party transaction costs related to the pending acquisition of Berry Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Share-based compensation expense Distributions to unitholders Related party transaction, amounts of transaction Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Maximum Loss Upon All Counterparties Failing To Perform Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Financial Instrument, Maximum Exposure Operating lease expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Future Minimum Lease Payments [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustments [Table] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustments [Table] Nonrecurring Adjustment [Axis] Nonrecurring Adjustment [Axis] Nonrecurring Adjustment [Domain] Nonrecurring Adjustment [Domain] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items] Business acquisition interim financing Business acquisition interim financing Interim financing raised to fund Business acquisition. Business Acquisition Pro Forma Results of Operations Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Total revenues and other Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Total operating expenses Business Acquisition Pro Forma Expense The pro forma expense for a period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of the period. Net loss Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Net loss per unit: Earnings Per Share, Pro Forma [Abstract] Basic Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Gains on oil and natural gas derivatives Cash Settlements On Derivatives including canceled derivatives Cash Settlements On Derivatives including canceled derivatives The realized cash settlements from derivative instruments, which were included in earnings in the period. Includes commodity and interest rate derivatives and canceled derivatives. Unitholders' Capital (Deficit) Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Loans Payable Loans Payable [Member] Secured Debt [Member] Secured Debt [Member] Net unamortized discounts and premiums Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Less current portion (5) Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Interest Payments on Troubled Debt, Current Interest Payments on Troubled Debt, Current Interest payments due within 12 months recorded on the balance sheet as part of a troubled debt restructuring. Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Units Member Units [Member] Unitholders’ Capital Common Stock Including Additional Paid in Capital [Member] Accumulated Income (Deficit) Accumulated Income (Deficit) [Member] Treasury Units (at Cost) Treasury Stock [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Common Units, Outstanding (in units) Balance Beginning Sale of units, net of offering costs of $8,762 Issuance of units (in units) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Other Issuance of units Stock Issued During Period, Value, Other Cancellation of units (in units) Cancellation of units Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value Purchase of units Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Unit-based compensation expenses Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Reclassification of distributions paid on forfeited restricted units Reclassification Of Distributions Paid On Forfeited Units The total dollar amount of distributions paid on forfeited shares reclassified to compensation cost. Excess tax benefit from unit-based compensation and other Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Excess tax benefit from unit-based compensation and other Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Deficiency from Share-based Compensation Deferred tax on capital contribution Deferred Tax on Capital Contribution Amount of increase in additional paid in capital (APIC) resulting from a tax benefit associated with capital contribution of acquired company. Balance Ending Common Units, Outstanding (in units) Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Derivatives Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Reference Rate [Axis] Reference Rate [Axis] Reference Rate [Axis] Reference Rate [Domain] Reference Rate [Domain] Reference Rate [Domain] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] ABR [Member] ABR [Member] ABR [Member] Coverage ratio required by period [Axis] Coverage ratio required by period [Axis] Coverage ratio required by period [Axis] Coverage ratio required by period [Domain] Coverage ratio required by period [Domain] [Domain] for Coverage ratio required by period [Axis] March 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017 [Member] March 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017 [Member] March 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017 Subsequent to June 30, 2017 [Member] Subsequent to June 30, 2017 [Member] Subsequent to June 30, 2017 December 31, 2015 through December 31, 2016 [Member] December 31, 2015 through December 31, 2016 [Member] December 31, 2015 through December 31, 2016 Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Three [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Three [Member] Percent of future net income allowable to increase Berry's restricted payments basket Percent of future net income allowable to increase Berry's restricted payments basket Percent of future net income allowable to increase Berry's restricted payments basket Unsecured debt outstanding required to trigger springing maturity Unsecured debt outstanding required to trigger springing maturity Unsecured debt outstanding required to trigger springing maturity. Loans Payable Loans Payable Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Maximum Junior Lien debt exchange Maximum Junior Lien debt exchange The amended LINN Credit facility provide for the ability to incur up to $4.0 billion of junior lien debt to accomodate exchanges of the Company's outstanding unsecured senior notes and Berry senior notes or as additional indebtedness, but such additional indebtedness may not exceed $1.0 billion. Maximum junior lien additional debt Maximum junior lien additional debt The amended LINN Credit facility provide for the ability to incur up to $4.0 billion of junior lien debt to accomodate exchanges of the Company's outstanding unsecured senior notes and Berry senior notes or as additional indebtedness, but such additional indebtedness may not exceed $1.0 billion. Minimum liquidity Minimum liquidity The amended LINN Credit facility provide for a minimum liquidity requirement equal to the greater of $500 million and 15% of the then effective available borrowing base after giving effect to certain redemptions or repurchases of certain debt. Minimum liquidity as a percentage of borrowing base Minimum liquidity as a percentage of borrowing base The amended LINN Credit facility provide for a minimum liquidity requirement equal to the greater of $500 million and 15% of the then effective available borrowing base after giving effect to certain redemptions or repurchases of certain debt. Line Of Credit Facility Collateral Coverage Ratio Line Of Credit Facility Collateral Coverage Ratio Represents the ratio of the present value of future cash flows from proved reserves from the currently mortgaged properties to the lesser of: (i) the then-effective borrowing base and (ii) the maximum commitment amount. Line Of Credit Facility Portion Of Properties Required To Maintain Mortgages Line Of Credit Facility Portion Of Properties Required To Maintain Mortgages The percentage of properties the Company is required to maintain mortgages on as a covenant of the credit facility Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Change in basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Change in basis spread on variable rate The increase(decrease) in percentage points added to the reference rate to compute the variable rate on the debt instrument. Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage Repayments of debt Gain (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt excluding TDR Gain (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt excluding TDR Difference between the fair value of payments made and the carrying amount of debt which is extinguished prior to maturity excluding gains/losses resulting from troubled debt restructurings. Increase (decrease) to restricted cash Increase (decrease) to restricted cash The non-cash increase (decrease) in restricted cash funded by borrowings (repayments) under the credit facility. Springing maturity days prior to unsecured debt maturity Springing maturity days prior to unsecured debt maturity In the event of a springing maturity, the days ahead of unsecured debt that the senior debt instrument matures. Maximum Percentage of Debt Instrument Redeemable Maximum Percentage of Debt Instrument Redeemable Maximum Percentage of Debt Instrument Redeemable before a contractual specified period. Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage Minimum original face value of debt remaining Minimum original face value of debt remaining Immediately before a debt redemption, the minimum percentage of the original face value of debt outstanding to commence a redemption with proceeds from an equity offering. Debt Instrument, Redemption price plus make whole premium, percentage Debt Instrument, Redemption price plus make whole premium, percentage Debt Instrument, Redemption price plus make whole premium, percentage Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Schedule of Pro Forma Results of Operations Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Impairment of Proved Oil and Natural Gas Properties Details of impairment of Proved Oil & Gas Properties Held and Used by Asset [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure for impairment of proved oil and gas properties held and used by the entity which includes a description of the impaired properties and facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, aggregate amount of the impairment loss and where the loss is located in the income statement, method(s) for determining fair value, and the segment in which the impaired long-lived asset is reported. Impairment of Unproved Oil and Natural Gas Properties Unproved Property Impairment [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure for impairment of unproved oil and gas properties held and used by an entity which includes a description of the impaired unproved property and facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, aggregate amount of the impairment loss and where the loss is located in the income statement, method(s) for determining fair value, and the segment in which the impaired long-lived asset is reported. Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring Basis Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Net loss per unit: Basic (in usd per unit) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted (in usd per unit) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted average units outstanding: Basic (in units) Diluted (in units) Distributions declared per unit (in usd per unit) Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Distributions Declared, Per Unit Long-term debt, net Commitments and contingencies (Note 11) Commitments and Contingencies Accumulated deficit Divestitures, Exchanges of Properties, Acquisitions and Joint-Venture Funding Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring Basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Supplemental Disclosures to the Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Designated to encapsulate the entire footnote disclosure that provides information on the supplemental balance sheet and cash flow activities, including cash, noncash, and part noncash transactions, for the period. Noncash and "part noncash" are defined as information about all investing and financing activities of an enterprise, or portion thereof, that affect recognized assets or liabilities but that do not result in cash receipts or payments in the period. Gains (losses) on oil and natural gas derivatives Total revenues and other Total expenses (1) Costs and Expenses excluding gain/loss on sale of assets Total costs of sales and operating expenses for the period, excluding the gain/loss on sale of assets and other. (Gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net Basic Diluted Underwriting discounts and expenses Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Stock Issued, Issuance Costs Summary of Outstanding Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Senior Notes Exchanged Schedule of Senior Notes Exchanged [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of senior notes exchanged for new issuance of senior secured second lien debt. Debt Instrument Redemption Prices Debt Instrument Redemption [Table Text Block] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key 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 Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Earnings Per Unit Earnings Per Share [Text Block]