| Cover Page Document | Jan. 20, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jan. 20, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | California Resources Corp |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-36478 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 46-5670947 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 27200 Tourney Road |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 200 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Santa Clarita |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 91355 |
| City Area Code | 888 |
| Local Phone Number | 848-4754 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | CRC |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001609253 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
