| Document and Entity Information | May 05, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | May 5, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | CATCHMARK TIMBER TRUST, INC. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or 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 | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Class A Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value Per Share |
| Trading Symbol | CTT |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001341141 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
