| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 14, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | Callon Petroleum Co |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000928022 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 14, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-14039 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 64-0844345 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 2000 W. Sam Houston Parkway S. |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 2000 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Houston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 77042 |
| City Area Code | (281) |
| Local Phone Number | 589-5200 |
| Written Communications | true |
| 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 | CPE |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
