| Document and Entity Information | Sep. 13, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001341141 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 13, 2022 |
| Entity Registrant Name | CATCHMARK TIMBER TRUST, INC. |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | MD |
| Entity File Number | 001-36239 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 20-3536671 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 5 Concourse Parkway |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 2650 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Atlanta |
| Entity Address, State or Province | GA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 30328 |
| City Area Code | (855) |
| Local Phone Number | 858-9794 |
| Written Communications | true |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Class A Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value Per Share |
| Trading Symbol | CTT |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
