INVESTMENT IN NUSTAR ENERGY Table 3 (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Reconciliation of NuStar Energy’s total partners’ equity to our investment in NuStar Energy
NuStar GP Holdings’ ownership interest in NuStar Energy	14.90%	15.00%	16.30%	17.60%
NuStar GP Holdings’ share of NuStar Energy’s partners’ equity	$ 283,418	$ 385,858
Step-up in basis related to NuStar Energy’s assets and liabilities, including equity method goodwill, and other	74,038	79,123
Investment in NuStar Energy	357,456	464,981
NuStar Energy [Member]
Reconciliation of NuStar Energy’s total partners’ equity to our investment in NuStar Energy
NuStar Energy's partners' equity	$ 1,902,136	$ 2,572,384