| Document and Entity Information | Jun. 26, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | PENN VIRGINIA CORP |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000077159 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jun. 26, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | VA |
| Entity File Number | 1-13283 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 23-1184320 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 16285 Park Ten Place |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 500 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Houston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 77084 |
| City Area Code | (713) |
| Local Phone Number | 722-6500 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value |
| Trading Symbol | PVAC |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
