Liabilities for Dispositions and Discontinued Operations - Schedule of Change in Environmental Loss Contingencies (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 76,378	$ 81,695	$ 90,824
Expenditures charged to liabilities	(5,096)	(8,570)	(9,926)
Increase to liabilities	2,558	3,253	797
Contribution to Rayonier Advanced Materials	(73,840)	0	0
Ending balance	0	76,378	81,695
Less: Current portion	0	(6,835)	(8,105)
Non-current portion	$ 0	$ 69,543	$ 73,590