| Cover | Aug. 18, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 18, 2021 |
| Entity File Number | 001-16653 |
| Entity Registrant Name | EMPIRE PETROLEUM CORPORATION |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000887396 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 73-1238709 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 2200 S. Utica Place |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 150 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Tulsa |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OK |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 74114 |
| City Area Code | 539 |
| Local Phone Number | 444-8002 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
