| Cover | Jan. 18, 2023 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Jan. 18, 2023 |
| Entity File Number | 814-00663 |
| Entity Registrant Name | ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001287750 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 33-1089684 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MD |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 245 Park Avenue |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | 44th Floor |
| Entity Address, City or Town | New York |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NY |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 10167 |
| City Area Code | 212 |
| Local Phone Number | 750-7300 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock, $0.001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | ARCC |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
