| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 27, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001737204 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 27, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Riviera Resources, Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 333-225927 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 82-5121920 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 600 Travis Street |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 1700 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Houston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 77002 |
| City Area Code | 281 |
| Local Phone Number | 840-4000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
