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Schedule III - Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Jan. 01, 2012
Jan. 02, 2011
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land $ 109,279us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand      
Original Buildings and Improvements 1,500,033us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements      
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 417,560us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts      
Land and Improvements 89,741us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand      
Building and Improvements 1,849,477us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements      
Land Held for Development 28,433geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment      
Development and Construction in Progress 59,221geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress      
Total 2,026,872us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 1,935,556us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 1,840,306us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 1,805,434us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
Accumulated Depreciation 317,584us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 266,848us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 217,428us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 174,055us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 1,253,164us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances      
Broward Transition Center        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 4,716us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BrowardTransitionCenterMember
     
Broward Transition Center | Deerfield Beach, FL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 4,085us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BrowardTransitionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DEERFIELDBEACHFLMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 15,441us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BrowardTransitionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DEERFIELDBEACHFLMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 18,107us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BrowardTransitionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DEERFIELDBEACHFLMember
     
Land and Improvements 4,085us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BrowardTransitionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DEERFIELDBEACHFLMember
     
Building and Improvements 33,548us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BrowardTransitionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DEERFIELDBEACHFLMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BrowardTransitionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DEERFIELDBEACHFLMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BrowardTransitionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DEERFIELDBEACHFLMember
     
Total 37,633us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BrowardTransitionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DEERFIELDBEACHFLMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 32,917us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BrowardTransitionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DEERFIELDBEACHFLMember
     
D. Ray James Correctional Facility        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 6,746us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesCorrectionalFacilityMember
     
D. Ray James Correctional Facility | Folkston, GA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 1,229us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 55,961us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 12,846us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,347us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Building and Improvements 68,446us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Land Held for Development 243geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Total 70,036us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 63,290us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
D. Ray James Detention Facility        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 2,883us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesDetentionFacilityMember
     
D. Ray James Detention Facility | Folkston, GA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 291us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 30,399us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,098us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Land and Improvements 291us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Building and Improvements 34,497us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Total 34,788us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 31,905us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_D.RayJamesDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FOLKSTONGAMember
     
LaSalle Detention Facility        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 9,369us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LaSalleDetentionFacilityMember
     
LaSalle Detention Facility | Jena, LA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 856us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LaSalleDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JENALAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 51,623us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LaSalleDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JENALAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,580us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LaSalleDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JENALAMember
     
Land and Improvements 706us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LaSalleDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JENALAMember
     
Building and Improvements 54,627us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LaSalleDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JENALAMember
     
Land Held for Development 514geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LaSalleDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JENALAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 212geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LaSalleDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JENALAMember
     
Total 56,059us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LaSalleDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JENALAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 46,690us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LaSalleDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JENALAMember
     
Moshannon Valley Correctional Center        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 6,873us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MoshannonValleyCorrectionalCenterMember
     
Moshannon Valley Correctional Center | Philipsburg, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 1,107us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MoshannonValleyCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILIPSBURGPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 65,160us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MoshannonValleyCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILIPSBURGPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 7,251us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MoshannonValleyCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILIPSBURGPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,385us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MoshannonValleyCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILIPSBURGPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 72,046us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MoshannonValleyCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILIPSBURGPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 87geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MoshannonValleyCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILIPSBURGPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MoshannonValleyCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILIPSBURGPAMember
     
Total 73,518us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MoshannonValleyCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILIPSBURGPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 66,645us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MoshannonValleyCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILIPSBURGPAMember
     
North Lake Correctional Facility        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 6,303us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthLakeCorrectionalFacilityMember
     
North Lake Correctional Facility | Baldwin, MI        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 66us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthLakeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BALDWINMIMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 36,727us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthLakeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BALDWINMIMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 50,798us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthLakeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BALDWINMIMember
     
Land and Improvements 66us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthLakeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BALDWINMIMember
     
Building and Improvements 87,525us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthLakeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BALDWINMIMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthLakeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BALDWINMIMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthLakeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BALDWINMIMember
     
Total 87,591us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthLakeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BALDWINMIMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 81,288us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthLakeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BALDWINMIMember
     
Queens Detention Facility        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 7,183us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensDetentionFacilityMember
     
Queens Detention Facility | Jamaica, NY        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 2,237us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 19,847us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 368us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Land and Improvements 2,237us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Building and Improvements 20,203us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 12geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Total 22,452us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Riverbend Correctional Facility        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 6,127us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiverbendCorrectionalFacilityMember
     
Riverbend Correctional Facility | Milledgeville, GA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiverbendCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MILLEDGEVILLEGAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 72,932us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiverbendCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MILLEDGEVILLEGAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 113us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiverbendCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MILLEDGEVILLEGAMember
     
Land and Improvements 25us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiverbendCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MILLEDGEVILLEGAMember
     
Building and Improvements 73,020us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiverbendCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MILLEDGEVILLEGAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiverbendCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MILLEDGEVILLEGAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiverbendCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MILLEDGEVILLEGAMember
     
Total 73,045us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiverbendCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MILLEDGEVILLEGAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 66,918us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiverbendCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MILLEDGEVILLEGAMember
     
Rivers Correctional Institution        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 17,204us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiversCorrectionalInstitutionMember
     
Rivers Correctional Institution | Winton, NC        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 875us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiversCorrectionalInstitutionMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WINTONNCMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 60,328us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiversCorrectionalInstitutionMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WINTONNCMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,213us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiversCorrectionalInstitutionMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WINTONNCMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,195us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiversCorrectionalInstitutionMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WINTONNCMember
     
Building and Improvements 62,069us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiversCorrectionalInstitutionMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WINTONNCMember
     
Land Held for Development 149geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiversCorrectionalInstitutionMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WINTONNCMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 3geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiversCorrectionalInstitutionMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WINTONNCMember
     
Total 63,416us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiversCorrectionalInstitutionMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WINTONNCMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 46,212us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RiversCorrectionalInstitutionMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WINTONNCMember
     
Robert A. Deyton Detention Facility        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 5,941us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RobertA.DeytonDetentionFacilityMember
     
Robert A. Deyton Detention Facility | Lovejoy, GA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RobertA.DeytonDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOVEJOYGAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 8,163us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RobertA.DeytonDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOVEJOYGAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 9,982us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RobertA.DeytonDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOVEJOYGAMember
     
Land and Improvements 15us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RobertA.DeytonDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOVEJOYGAMember
     
Building and Improvements 18,130us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RobertA.DeytonDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOVEJOYGAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RobertA.DeytonDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOVEJOYGAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RobertA.DeytonDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOVEJOYGAMember
     
Total 18,145us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RobertA.DeytonDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOVEJOYGAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RobertA.DeytonDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOVEJOYGAMember
     
Big Spring Correctional Center        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 13,809us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BigSpringCorrectionalCenterMember
     
Big Spring Correctional Center | Big Spring, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 530us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BigSpringCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BIGSPRINGTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 83,160us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BigSpringCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BIGSPRINGTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 9,047us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BigSpringCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BIGSPRINGTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,266us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BigSpringCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BIGSPRINGTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 86,650us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BigSpringCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BIGSPRINGTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BigSpringCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BIGSPRINGTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 4,821geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BigSpringCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BIGSPRINGTXMember
     
Total 92,737us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BigSpringCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BIGSPRINGTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BigSpringCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BIGSPRINGTXMember
     
Great Plains Correctional Facility        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 7,947us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GreatPlainsCorrectionalFacilityMember
     
Great Plains Correctional Facility | Hinton, OK        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 463us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GreatPlainsCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINTONOKMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 76,580us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GreatPlainsCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINTONOKMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,330us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GreatPlainsCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINTONOKMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,112us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GreatPlainsCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINTONOKMember
     
Building and Improvements 81,245us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GreatPlainsCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINTONOKMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GreatPlainsCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINTONOKMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 16geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GreatPlainsCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINTONOKMember
     
Total 82,373us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GreatPlainsCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINTONOKMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 74,426us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GreatPlainsCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINTONOKMember
     
Joe Corley Detention Facility        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 2,972us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JoeCorleyDetentionFacilityMember
     
Joe Corley Detention Facility | Conroe, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 470us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JoeCorleyDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CONROETXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 64,813us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JoeCorleyDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CONROETXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 855us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JoeCorleyDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CONROETXMember
     
Land and Improvements 598us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JoeCorleyDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CONROETXMember
     
Building and Improvements 65,540us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JoeCorleyDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CONROETXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JoeCorleyDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CONROETXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JoeCorleyDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CONROETXMember
     
Total 66,138us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JoeCorleyDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CONROETXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 63,166us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JoeCorleyDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CONROETXMember
     
Karnes Correctional Center        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 5,332us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCorrectionalCenterMember
     
Karnes Correctional Center | Karnes City, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 937us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 24,825us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,634us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 912us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 26,308us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 176geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Total 27,396us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 22,064us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Karnes County Civil Detention Center        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 1,941us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCountyCivilDetentionCenterMember
     
Karnes County Civil Detention Center | Karnes City, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCountyCivilDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 29,052us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCountyCivilDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,720us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCountyCivilDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 47us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCountyCivilDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 30,425us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCountyCivilDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCountyCivilDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 300geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCountyCivilDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Total 30,772us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCountyCivilDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 28,831us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KarnesCountyCivilDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KARNESCITYTXMember
     
Lawton Correctional Facility        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 17,359us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawtonCorrectionalFacilityMember
     
Lawton Correctional Facility | Lawton, OK        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 1,012us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawtonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWTONOKMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 96,637us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawtonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWTONOKMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 6,393us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawtonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWTONOKMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,041us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawtonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWTONOKMember
     
Building and Improvements 97,461us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawtonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWTONOKMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawtonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWTONOKMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 5,540geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawtonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWTONOKMember
     
Total 104,042us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawtonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWTONOKMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 86,683us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawtonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWTONOKMember
     
Rio Grande Detention Center        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 10,759us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RioGrandeDetentionCenterMember
     
Rio Grande Detention Center | Laredo, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 8,365us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RioGrandeDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAREDOTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 81,178us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RioGrandeDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAREDOTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,023us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RioGrandeDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAREDOTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 6,266us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RioGrandeDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAREDOTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 82,201us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RioGrandeDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAREDOTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 2,099geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RioGrandeDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAREDOTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RioGrandeDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAREDOTXMember
     
Total 90,566us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RioGrandeDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAREDOTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 79,807us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RioGrandeDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAREDOTXMember
     
South Texas Detention Complex        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 7,444us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthTexasDetentionComplexMember
     
South Texas Detention Complex | Pearsall, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 437us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthTexasDetentionComplexMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PEARSALLTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 31,405us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthTexasDetentionComplexMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PEARSALLTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,786us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthTexasDetentionComplexMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PEARSALLTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 437us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthTexasDetentionComplexMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PEARSALLTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 36,191us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthTexasDetentionComplexMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PEARSALLTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthTexasDetentionComplexMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PEARSALLTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthTexasDetentionComplexMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PEARSALLTXMember
     
Total 36,628us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthTexasDetentionComplexMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PEARSALLTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthTexasDetentionComplexMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PEARSALLTXMember
     
Val Verde Correctional Facility        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Accumulated Depreciation 11,867us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ValVerdeCorrectionalFacilityMember
     
Val Verde Correctional Facility | Del Rio, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 21us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ValVerdeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DELRIOTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 56,009us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ValVerdeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DELRIOTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 641us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ValVerdeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DELRIOTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 16us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ValVerdeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DELRIOTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 56,650us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ValVerdeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DELRIOTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 5geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ValVerdeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DELRIOTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ValVerdeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DELRIOTXMember
     
Total 56,671us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ValVerdeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DELRIOTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 44,804us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ValVerdeCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DELRIOTXMember
     
Adelanto Detention Facility | Adelanto, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 8,005us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AdelantoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 113,255us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AdelantoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 33,265us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AdelantoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 8,471us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AdelantoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 113,294us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AdelantoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AdelantoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 32,760geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AdelantoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Total 154,525us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AdelantoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,010us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AdelantoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 147,515us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AdelantoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Aurora/ICE Processing Center | Aurora, CO        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 4,590us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraICEProcessingCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 15,200us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraICEProcessingCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 71,965us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraICEProcessingCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Land and Improvements 4,271us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraICEProcessingCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Building and Improvements 86,174us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraICEProcessingCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Land Held for Development 1,310geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraICEProcessingCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraICEProcessingCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Total 91,755us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraICEProcessingCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 10,165us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraICEProcessingCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 81,590us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraICEProcessingCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Central Valley MCCF | Mc Farland, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 1,055us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralValleyMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 28,133us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralValleyMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,420us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralValleyMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 905us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralValleyMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 30,489us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralValleyMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 211geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralValleyMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 3geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralValleyMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Total 31,608us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralValleyMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,782us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralValleyMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 25,826us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralValleyMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Desert View MCCF | Adelanto, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 1,245us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DesertViewMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 27,943us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DesertViewMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,105us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DesertViewMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,245us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DesertViewMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 32,025us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DesertViewMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DesertViewMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 23geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DesertViewMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Total 33,293us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DesertViewMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,164us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DesertViewMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 27,129us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DesertViewMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ADELANTOCAMember
     
Golden State MCCF | Mc Farland, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 1,264us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GoldenStateMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 27,924us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GoldenStateMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,148us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GoldenStateMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,072us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GoldenStateMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 30,008us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GoldenStateMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 253geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GoldenStateMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 3geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GoldenStateMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Total 31,336us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GoldenStateMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,686us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GoldenStateMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 25,650us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GoldenStateMCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Guadalupe County Correctional Facility | Santa Rosa, NM        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 181us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuadalupeCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANTAROSANMMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 29,732us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuadalupeCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANTAROSANMMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 674us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuadalupeCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANTAROSANMMember
     
Land and Improvements 27us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuadalupeCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANTAROSANMMember
     
Building and Improvements 29,903us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuadalupeCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANTAROSANMMember
     
Land Held for Development 154geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuadalupeCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANTAROSANMMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 503geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuadalupeCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANTAROSANMMember
     
Total 30,587us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuadalupeCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANTAROSANMMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 9,398us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuadalupeCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANTAROSANMMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 21,189us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuadalupeCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANTAROSANMMember
     
Hudson Correctional Facility | Hudson, CO        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 11,140us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HudsonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HUDSONCOMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HudsonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HUDSONCOMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,595us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HudsonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HUDSONCOMember
     
Land and Improvements 7,372us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HudsonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HUDSONCOMember
     
Building and Improvements 4,443us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HudsonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HUDSONCOMember
     
Land Held for Development 3,920geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HudsonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HUDSONCOMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HudsonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HUDSONCOMember
     
Total 15,735us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HudsonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HUDSONCOMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,667us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HudsonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HUDSONCOMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HudsonCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HUDSONCOMember
     
Lea County Correctional Facility | Hobbs, NM        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 347us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeaCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOBBSNMMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 67,933us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeaCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOBBSNMMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,102us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeaCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOBBSNMMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeaCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOBBSNMMember
     
Building and Improvements 69,028us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeaCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOBBSNMMember
     
Land Held for Development 347geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeaCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOBBSNMMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 7geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeaCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOBBSNMMember
     
Total 69,382us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeaCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOBBSNMMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 13,271us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeaCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOBBSNMMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 56,111us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeaCountyCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOBBSNMMember
     
Leo Chesney CCF | Live Oak, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeoChesneyFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LIVEOAKCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 535us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeoChesneyFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LIVEOAKCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 249us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeoChesneyFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LIVEOAKCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeoChesneyFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LIVEOAKCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 784us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeoChesneyFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LIVEOAKCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeoChesneyFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LIVEOAKCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeoChesneyFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LIVEOAKCAMember
     
Total 784us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeoChesneyFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LIVEOAKCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 674us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeoChesneyFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LIVEOAKCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeoChesneyFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LIVEOAKCAMember
     
McFarland CCF | Mc Farland, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 914us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McFarlandFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 9,019us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McFarlandFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 8,369us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McFarlandFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,363us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McFarlandFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 16,657us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McFarlandFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 183geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McFarlandFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 99geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McFarlandFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Total 18,302us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McFarlandFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,489us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McFarlandFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McFarlandFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MCFARLANDCAMember
     
Mesa Verde CCF | Bakersfield, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 2,237us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MesaVerdeFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 13,714us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MesaVerdeFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 10,824us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MesaVerdeFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 2,237us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MesaVerdeFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 14,017us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MesaVerdeFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MesaVerdeFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 10,521geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MesaVerdeFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Total 26,775us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MesaVerdeFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,376us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MesaVerdeFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MesaVerdeFemaleCCFMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Northwest Detention Center | Tacoma, WA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 3,916us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthwestDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TACOMAWAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 39,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthwestDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TACOMAWAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 48,650us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthwestDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TACOMAWAMember
     
Land and Improvements 3,920us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthwestDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TACOMAWAMember
     
Building and Improvements 85,537us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthwestDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TACOMAWAMember
     
Land Held for Development 2,004geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthwestDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TACOMAWAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 105geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthwestDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TACOMAWAMember
     
Total 91,566us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthwestDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TACOMAWAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 13,562us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthwestDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TACOMAWAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthwestDetentionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TACOMAWAMember
     
Western Region Detention Facility | San Diego, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 28,071us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 873us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 28,944us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Total 28,944us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 27,836us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Delaney Hall | Newark, NJ        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 3,759us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DelaneyHallMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 22,502us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DelaneyHallMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 12,970us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DelaneyHallMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Land and Improvements 3,759us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DelaneyHallMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Building and Improvements 35,472us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DelaneyHallMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DelaneyHallMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DelaneyHallMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Total 39,231us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DelaneyHallMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,723us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DelaneyHallMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 32,508us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DelaneyHallMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Alexandria Transfer Center | Alexandria, LA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AlexandriaTransferCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AlexandriaLAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 17,181us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AlexandriaTransferCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AlexandriaLAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AlexandriaTransferCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AlexandriaLAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AlexandriaTransferCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AlexandriaLAMember
     
Building and Improvements 17,181us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AlexandriaTransferCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AlexandriaLAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AlexandriaTransferCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AlexandriaLAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AlexandriaTransferCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AlexandriaLAMember
     
Total 17,181us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AlexandriaTransferCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AlexandriaLAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 86us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AlexandriaTransferCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AlexandriaLAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AlexandriaTransferCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AlexandriaLAMember
     
Allen Correctional Center | Kinder, LA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AllenCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KINDERLAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 28us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AllenCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KINDERLAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 403us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AllenCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KINDERLAMember
     
Land and Improvements 2us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AllenCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KINDERLAMember
     
Building and Improvements 429us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AllenCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KINDERLAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AllenCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KINDERLAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AllenCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KINDERLAMember
     
Total 431us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AllenCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KINDERLAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 190us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AllenCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KINDERLAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AllenCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KINDERLAMember
     
Central Texas Detention Facility | San Antonio, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralTexasDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralTexasDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,917us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralTexasDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralTexasDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 3,917us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralTexasDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralTexasDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralTexasDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Total 3,917us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralTexasDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,037us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralTexasDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralTexasDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Lockhart Work Program Facilities | Lockhart, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LockhartWorkProgramFacilitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOCKHARTTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 73us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LockhartWorkProgramFacilitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOCKHARTTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 267us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LockhartWorkProgramFacilitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOCKHARTTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LockhartWorkProgramFacilitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOCKHARTTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 277us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LockhartWorkProgramFacilitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOCKHARTTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LockhartWorkProgramFacilitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOCKHARTTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 63geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LockhartWorkProgramFacilitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOCKHARTTXMember
     
Total 340us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LockhartWorkProgramFacilitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOCKHARTTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 234us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LockhartWorkProgramFacilitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOCKHARTTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LockhartWorkProgramFacilitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOCKHARTTXMember
     
Lawrenceville Correctional Center | Lawrenceville, VA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawrencevilleCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWRENCEVILLEVAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawrencevilleCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWRENCEVILLEVAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 754us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawrencevilleCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWRENCEVILLEVAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawrencevilleCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWRENCEVILLEVAMember
     
Building and Improvements 745us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawrencevilleCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWRENCEVILLEVAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawrencevilleCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWRENCEVILLEVAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 9geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawrencevilleCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWRENCEVILLEVAMember
     
Total 754us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawrencevilleCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWRENCEVILLEVAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 722us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawrencevilleCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWRENCEVILLEVAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LawrencevilleCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LAWRENCEVILLEVAMember
     
Arizona State Prison- Florence West | Florence, AZ        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 320us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonFlorenceWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 9,317us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonFlorenceWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,010us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonFlorenceWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Land and Improvements 320us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonFlorenceWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Building and Improvements 10,327us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonFlorenceWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonFlorenceWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonFlorenceWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Total 10,647us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonFlorenceWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,746us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonFlorenceWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonFlorenceWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Arizona State Prison- Phoenix West | Phoenix, AZ        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonPhoenixWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 7,919us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonPhoenixWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 442us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonPhoenixWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonPhoenixWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Building and Improvements 8,356us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonPhoenixWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonPhoenixWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 5geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonPhoenixWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Total 8,361us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonPhoenixWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,318us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonPhoenixWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArizonaStatePrisonPhoenixWestMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Central Arizona Correctional Facility | Florence, AZ        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralArizonaCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 396us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralArizonaCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,250us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralArizonaCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralArizonaCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,646us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralArizonaCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralArizonaCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralArizonaCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Total 1,646us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralArizonaCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,074us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralArizonaCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralArizonaCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FLORENCEAZMember
     
New Castle Correctional Facility | New Castle, IN        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewCastleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWCASTLEINMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewCastleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWCASTLEINMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 22,268us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewCastleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWCASTLEINMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewCastleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWCASTLEINMember
     
Building and Improvements 22,268us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewCastleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWCASTLEINMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewCastleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWCASTLEINMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewCastleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWCASTLEINMember
     
Total 22,268us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewCastleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWCASTLEINMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,898us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewCastleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWCASTLEINMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewCastleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWCASTLEINMember
     
Plainfield Indiana STOP Facility | Plainfield, IN        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PlainfieldIndianaSTOPFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PLAINFIELDINMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PlainfieldIndianaSTOPFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PLAINFIELDINMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PlainfieldIndianaSTOPFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PLAINFIELDINMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PlainfieldIndianaSTOPFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PLAINFIELDINMember
     
Building and Improvements 5us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PlainfieldIndianaSTOPFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PLAINFIELDINMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PlainfieldIndianaSTOPFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PLAINFIELDINMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PlainfieldIndianaSTOPFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PLAINFIELDINMember
     
Total 5us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PlainfieldIndianaSTOPFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PLAINFIELDINMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PlainfieldIndianaSTOPFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PLAINFIELDINMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PlainfieldIndianaSTOPFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PLAINFIELDINMember
     
South Bay Correctional Facility | South Bay, FL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthBayCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHBAYFLMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthBayCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHBAYFLMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,913us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthBayCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHBAYFLMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthBayCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHBAYFLMember
     
Building and Improvements 2,909us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthBayCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHBAYFLMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthBayCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHBAYFLMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 4geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthBayCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHBAYFLMember
     
Total 2,913us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthBayCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHBAYFLMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,815us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthBayCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHBAYFLMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthBayCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHBAYFLMember
     
Cleveland Correctional Center | Cleveland, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ClevelandCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLEVELANDTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ClevelandCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLEVELANDTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 61us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ClevelandCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLEVELANDTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ClevelandCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLEVELANDTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 61us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ClevelandCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLEVELANDTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ClevelandCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLEVELANDTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ClevelandCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLEVELANDTXMember
     
Total 61us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ClevelandCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLEVELANDTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 61us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ClevelandCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLEVELANDTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ClevelandCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLEVELANDTXMember
     
Reeves County Detention Complex R1/R2 | Pecos, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR1R2Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR1R2Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,188us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR1R2Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR1R2Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,188us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR1R2Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR1R2Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress         
Total 1,188us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR1R2Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 635us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR1R2Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR1R2Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Reeves County Detention Complex R3 | Pecos, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR3Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR3Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,225us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR3Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR3Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 4,225us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR3Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR3Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress         
Total 4,225us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR3Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,194us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR3Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ReevesCountyDetentionComplexR3Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PECOSTXMember
     
Northeast New Mexico Detention Facility | Clayton, NM        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NortheastNewMexicoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLAYTONNMMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NortheastNewMexicoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLAYTONNMMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 102us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NortheastNewMexicoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLAYTONNMMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NortheastNewMexicoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLAYTONNMMember
     
Building and Improvements 102us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NortheastNewMexicoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLAYTONNMMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NortheastNewMexicoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLAYTONNMMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NortheastNewMexicoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLAYTONNMMember
     
Total 102us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NortheastNewMexicoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLAYTONNMMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 99us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NortheastNewMexicoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLAYTONNMMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NortheastNewMexicoDetentionFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CLAYTONNMMember
     
Blackwater River Correctional Facility | Milton, FL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BlackwaterRiverCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MiltonFLMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BlackwaterRiverCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MiltonFLMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 34us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BlackwaterRiverCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MiltonFLMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BlackwaterRiverCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MiltonFLMember
     
Building and Improvements 34us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BlackwaterRiverCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MiltonFLMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BlackwaterRiverCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MiltonFLMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BlackwaterRiverCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MiltonFLMember
     
Total 34us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BlackwaterRiverCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MiltonFLMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 21us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BlackwaterRiverCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MiltonFLMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BlackwaterRiverCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MiltonFLMember
     
Bay Correctonal Facility | Panama City, FL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BayCorrectonalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PanamaCityFLMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BayCorrectonalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PanamaCityFLMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 6us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BayCorrectonalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PanamaCityFLMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BayCorrectonalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PanamaCityFLMember
     
Building and Improvements 6us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BayCorrectonalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PanamaCityFLMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BayCorrectonalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PanamaCityFLMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BayCorrectonalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PanamaCityFLMember
     
Total 6us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BayCorrectonalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PanamaCityFLMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BayCorrectonalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PanamaCityFLMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BayCorrectonalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PanamaCityFLMember
     
Moore Haven Correctional Facility | Moore Haven, FL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MooreHavenCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MooreHavenFLMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MooreHavenCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MooreHavenFLMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MooreHavenCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MooreHavenFLMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MooreHavenCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MooreHavenFLMember
     
Building and Improvements 18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MooreHavenCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MooreHavenFLMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MooreHavenCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MooreHavenFLMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MooreHavenCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MooreHavenFLMember
     
Total 18us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MooreHavenCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MooreHavenFLMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MooreHavenCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MooreHavenFLMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MooreHavenCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MooreHavenFLMember
     
Graceville Correctional Facility | Jackson, FL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GracevilleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JacksonFLMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GracevilleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JacksonFLMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 27us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GracevilleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JacksonFLMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GracevilleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JacksonFLMember
     
Building and Improvements 27us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GracevilleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JacksonFLMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GracevilleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JacksonFLMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GracevilleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JacksonFLMember
     
Total 27us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GracevilleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JacksonFLMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GracevilleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JacksonFLMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GracevilleCorrectionalFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JacksonFLMember
     
Beaumont Transitional Treatment Center | Beaumont, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 105us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BeaumontTransitionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BEAUMONTTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 560us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BeaumontTransitionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BEAUMONTTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 345us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BeaumontTransitionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BEAUMONTTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 105us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BeaumontTransitionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BEAUMONTTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 905us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BeaumontTransitionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BEAUMONTTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BeaumontTransitionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BEAUMONTTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BeaumontTransitionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BEAUMONTTXMember
     
Total 1,010us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BeaumontTransitionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BEAUMONTTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 193us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BeaumontTransitionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BEAUMONTTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BeaumontTransitionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BEAUMONTTXMember
     
Bronx Community Re-entry Center | Bronx, NY        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxCommunityReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 154us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxCommunityReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,775us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxCommunityReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxCommunityReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Building and Improvements 701us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxCommunityReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxCommunityReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 2,228geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxCommunityReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Total 2,929us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxCommunityReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 655us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxCommunityReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxCommunityReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Cordova Center | Anchorage, AK        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 235us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CordovaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 3,225us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CordovaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,520us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CordovaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Land and Improvements 235us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CordovaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Building and Improvements 6,745us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CordovaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CordovaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CordovaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Total 6,980us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CordovaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 826us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CordovaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CordovaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
El Monte Center | El Monte, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElMonteCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ELMONTECAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 47us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElMonteCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ELMONTECAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 288us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElMonteCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ELMONTECAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElMonteCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ELMONTECAMember
     
Building and Improvements 335us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElMonteCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ELMONTECAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElMonteCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ELMONTECAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElMonteCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ELMONTECAMember
     
Total 335us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElMonteCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ELMONTECAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 218us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElMonteCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ELMONTECAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElMonteCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ELMONTECAMember
     
Grossman Center | Leavenworth, KS        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GrossmanCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LEAVENWORTHKSMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 24us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GrossmanCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LEAVENWORTHKSMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 34us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GrossmanCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LEAVENWORTHKSMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GrossmanCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LEAVENWORTHKSMember
     
Building and Improvements 58us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GrossmanCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LEAVENWORTHKSMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GrossmanCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LEAVENWORTHKSMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GrossmanCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LEAVENWORTHKSMember
     
Total 58us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GrossmanCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LEAVENWORTHKSMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 37us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GrossmanCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LEAVENWORTHKSMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GrossmanCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LEAVENWORTHKSMember
     
Las Vegas Community Correctional Center | Las Vegas, NV        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 520us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LasVegasCommunityCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LASVEGASNVMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 1,580us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LasVegasCommunityCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LASVEGASNVMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 261us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LasVegasCommunityCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LASVEGASNVMember
     
Land and Improvements 520us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LasVegasCommunityCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LASVEGASNVMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,841us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LasVegasCommunityCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LASVEGASNVMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LasVegasCommunityCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LASVEGASNVMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LasVegasCommunityCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LASVEGASNVMember
     
Total 2,361us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LasVegasCommunityCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LASVEGASNVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 219us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LasVegasCommunityCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LASVEGASNVMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LasVegasCommunityCorrectionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LASVEGASNVMember
     
Leidel Comprehensive Sanction Center | Houston, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 3,210us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeidelComprehensiveSanctionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 710us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeidelComprehensiveSanctionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 422us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeidelComprehensiveSanctionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 3,210us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeidelComprehensiveSanctionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,126us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeidelComprehensiveSanctionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeidelComprehensiveSanctionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 6geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeidelComprehensiveSanctionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Total 4,342us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeidelComprehensiveSanctionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 190us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeidelComprehensiveSanctionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeidelComprehensiveSanctionCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Marvin Gardens Center | Los Angeles, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MarvinGardensCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 50us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MarvinGardensCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 148us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MarvinGardensCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MarvinGardensCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 198us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MarvinGardensCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MarvinGardensCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MarvinGardensCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Total 198us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MarvinGardensCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 131us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MarvinGardensCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MarvinGardensCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
McCabe Center | Austin, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 350us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McCabeCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AUSTINTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 510us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McCabeCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AUSTINTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 529us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McCabeCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AUSTINTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 350us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McCabeCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AUSTINTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,039us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McCabeCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AUSTINTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McCabeCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AUSTINTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McCabeCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AUSTINTXMember
     
Total 1,389us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McCabeCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AUSTINTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 288us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McCabeCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AUSTINTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_McCabeCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AUSTINTXMember
     
Mid Valley House | Edinburg, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 694us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidValleyHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_EDINBURGTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 3,608us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidValleyHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_EDINBURGTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 113us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidValleyHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_EDINBURGTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 701us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidValleyHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_EDINBURGTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 3,714us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidValleyHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_EDINBURGTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidValleyHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_EDINBURGTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidValleyHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_EDINBURGTXMember
     
Total 4,415us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidValleyHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_EDINBURGTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 40us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidValleyHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_EDINBURGTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidValleyHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_EDINBURGTXMember
     
Midtown Center | Anchorage, AK        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 130us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidtownCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 220us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidtownCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 136us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidtownCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Land and Improvements 130us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidtownCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Building and Improvements 344us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidtownCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidtownCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 12geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidtownCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Total 486us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidtownCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 62us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidtownCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MidtownCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Newark Residential Re-entry Center | Newark, NJ        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkResidentialReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 867us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkResidentialReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkResidentialReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkResidentialReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Building and Improvements 867us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkResidentialReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkResidentialReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkResidentialReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Total 867us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkResidentialReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 47us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkResidentialReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkResidentialReentryCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Northstar Center | Fairbanks, AK        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthstarCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRBANKSAKMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 12us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthstarCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRBANKSAKMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 196us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthstarCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRBANKSAKMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthstarCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRBANKSAKMember
     
Building and Improvements 208us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthstarCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRBANKSAKMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthstarCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRBANKSAKMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthstarCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRBANKSAKMember
     
Total 208us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthstarCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRBANKSAKMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 69us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthstarCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRBANKSAKMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthstarCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRBANKSAKMember
     
Oakland Center | Oakland, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 970us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OaklandCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_OAKLANDCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 250us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OaklandCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_OAKLANDCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 64us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OaklandCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_OAKLANDCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 970us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OaklandCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_OAKLANDCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 314us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OaklandCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_OAKLANDCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OaklandCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_OAKLANDCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OaklandCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_OAKLANDCAMember
     
Total 1,284us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OaklandCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_OAKLANDCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 72us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OaklandCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_OAKLANDCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OaklandCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_OAKLANDCAMember
     
Parkview Center | Anchorage, AK        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 160us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkviewCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 1,480us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkviewCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 216us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkviewCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Land and Improvements 160us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkviewCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,696us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkviewCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkviewCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkviewCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Total 1,856us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkviewCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 384us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkviewCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkviewCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANCHORAGEAKMember
     
Reality House | Brownsville, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 487us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RealityHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BROWNSVILLETXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 2,771us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RealityHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BROWNSVILLETXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 20us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RealityHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BROWNSVILLETXMember
     
Land and Improvements 487us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RealityHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BROWNSVILLETXMember
     
Building and Improvements 2,791us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RealityHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BROWNSVILLETXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RealityHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BROWNSVILLETXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RealityHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BROWNSVILLETXMember
     
Total 3,278us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RealityHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BROWNSVILLETXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 218us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RealityHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BROWNSVILLETXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RealityHouseMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BROWNSVILLETXMember
     
Southeast Texas Transitional Center | Houston, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 910us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SoutheastTexasTransitionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 3,210us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SoutheastTexasTransitionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,488us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SoutheastTexasTransitionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 912us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SoutheastTexasTransitionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 4,641us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SoutheastTexasTransitionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SoutheastTexasTransitionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 55geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SoutheastTexasTransitionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Total 5,608us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SoutheastTexasTransitionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 821us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SoutheastTexasTransitionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SoutheastTexasTransitionalCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Salt Lake City Center | Salt Lake City, UT        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SALTLAKECITYUTMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 4us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SALTLAKECITYUTMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 97us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SALTLAKECITYUTMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SALTLAKECITYUTMember
     
Building and Improvements 93us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SALTLAKECITYUTMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SALTLAKECITYUTMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 8geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SALTLAKECITYUTMember
     
Total 101us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SALTLAKECITYUTMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 30us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SALTLAKECITYUTMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SALTLAKECITYUTMember
     
Seaside Center | Nome, AK        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeasideCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NOMEAKMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeasideCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NOMEAKMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 44us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeasideCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NOMEAKMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeasideCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NOMEAKMember
     
Building and Improvements 44us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeasideCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NOMEAKMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeasideCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NOMEAKMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeasideCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NOMEAKMember
     
Total 44us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeasideCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NOMEAKMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 44us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeasideCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NOMEAKMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeasideCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NOMEAKMember
     
Taylor Street Center | San Francisco, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 3,230us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TaylorStreetCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 900us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TaylorStreetCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,899us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TaylorStreetCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 3,230us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TaylorStreetCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 3,799us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TaylorStreetCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TaylorStreetCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TaylorStreetCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Total 7,029us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TaylorStreetCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 575us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TaylorStreetCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TaylorStreetCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Tundra Center | Bethel, AK        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 20us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TundraCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BETHELAKMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 1,190us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TundraCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BETHELAKMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,005us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TundraCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BETHELAKMember
     
Land and Improvements 79us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TundraCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BETHELAKMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,661us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TundraCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BETHELAKMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TundraCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BETHELAKMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 475geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TundraCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BETHELAKMember
     
Total 2,215us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TundraCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BETHELAKMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 570us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TundraCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BETHELAKMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TundraCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BETHELAKMember
     
Abraxas Academy | Morgantown, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 4,220us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasAcademyMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MORGANTOWNPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 14,120us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasAcademyMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MORGANTOWNPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 680us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasAcademyMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MORGANTOWNPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 4,220us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasAcademyMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MORGANTOWNPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 14,800us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasAcademyMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MORGANTOWNPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasAcademyMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MORGANTOWNPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasAcademyMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MORGANTOWNPAMember
     
Total 19,020us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasAcademyMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MORGANTOWNPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,638us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasAcademyMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MORGANTOWNPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasAcademyMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MORGANTOWNPAMember
     
Abraxas I | Marienville, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 990us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MARIENVILLEPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 7,600us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MARIENVILLEPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 767us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MARIENVILLEPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,023us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MARIENVILLEPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 8,206us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MARIENVILLEPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MARIENVILLEPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 128geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MARIENVILLEPAMember
     
Total 9,357us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MARIENVILLEPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,172us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MARIENVILLEPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MARIENVILLEPAMember
     
Abraxas Ohio | Shelby, OH        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 1,160us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasOhioMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SHELBYOHMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 2,900us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasOhioMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SHELBYOHMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 624us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasOhioMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SHELBYOHMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,160us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasOhioMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SHELBYOHMember
     
Building and Improvements 3,524us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasOhioMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SHELBYOHMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasOhioMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SHELBYOHMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasOhioMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SHELBYOHMember
     
Total 4,684us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasOhioMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SHELBYOHMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 529us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasOhioMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SHELBYOHMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasOhioMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SHELBYOHMember
     
Abraxas Youth Center | South Mountain, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasYouthCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 36us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasYouthCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 177us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasYouthCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasYouthCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 213us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasYouthCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasYouthCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasYouthCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Total 213us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasYouthCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 186us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasYouthCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AbraxasYouthCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
DuPage Interventions | Hinsdale, IL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 2,110us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DuPageInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINSDALEILMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 1,190us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DuPageInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINSDALEILMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 200us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DuPageInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINSDALEILMember
     
Land and Improvements 2,110us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DuPageInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINSDALEILMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,390us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DuPageInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINSDALEILMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DuPageInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINSDALEILMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress         
Total 3,500us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DuPageInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINSDALEILMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 223us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DuPageInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINSDALEILMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DuPageInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HINSDALEILMember
     
Hector Garza Center | San Antonio, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 1,590us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HectorGarzaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 3,540us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HectorGarzaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 271us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HectorGarzaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 1,590us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HectorGarzaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 3,811us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HectorGarzaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HectorGarzaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HectorGarzaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Total 5,401us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HectorGarzaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 483us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HectorGarzaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HectorGarzaCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Leadership Development Program        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeadershipDevelopmentProgramMember
     
Leadership Development Program | South Mountain, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeadershipDevelopmentProgramMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 25us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeadershipDevelopmentProgramMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 374us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeadershipDevelopmentProgramMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeadershipDevelopmentProgramMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 397us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeadershipDevelopmentProgramMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeadershipDevelopmentProgramMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 2geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeadershipDevelopmentProgramMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Total 399us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeadershipDevelopmentProgramMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 319us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LeadershipDevelopmentProgramMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SOUTHMOUNTAINPAMember
     
Southern Peaks Regional Treatment Center | Canon City, CO        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 2,850us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthernPeaksRegionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CANONCITYCOMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 11,350us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthernPeaksRegionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CANONCITYCOMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 200us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthernPeaksRegionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CANONCITYCOMember
     
Land and Improvements 2,949us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthernPeaksRegionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CANONCITYCOMember
     
Building and Improvements 11,416us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthernPeaksRegionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CANONCITYCOMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthernPeaksRegionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CANONCITYCOMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 35geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthernPeaksRegionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CANONCITYCOMember
     
Total 14,400us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthernPeaksRegionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CANONCITYCOMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,477us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthernPeaksRegionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CANONCITYCOMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthernPeaksRegionalTreatmentCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CANONCITYCOMember
     
Southwood Interventions | Chicago, IL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 870us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthwoodInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 6,310us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthwoodInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 735us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthwoodInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Land and Improvements 870us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthwoodInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Building and Improvements 7,039us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthwoodInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthwoodInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 6geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthwoodInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Total 7,915us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthwoodInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,115us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthwoodInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthwoodInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Woodridge Interventions | Woodridge, IL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 5,160us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WoodridgeInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WOODRIDGEILMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 4,330us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WoodridgeInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WOODRIDGEILMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 646us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WoodridgeInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WOODRIDGEILMember
     
Land and Improvements 5,245us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WoodridgeInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WOODRIDGEILMember
     
Building and Improvements 4,832us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WoodridgeInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WOODRIDGEILMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WoodridgeInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WOODRIDGEILMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 59geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WoodridgeInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WOODRIDGEILMember
     
Total 10,136us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WoodridgeInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WOODRIDGEILMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 734us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WoodridgeInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WOODRIDGEILMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WoodridgeInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WOODRIDGEILMember
     
Contact Interventions | Wauconda, IL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 719us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ContactInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WAUCONDAILMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 1,110us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ContactInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WAUCONDAILMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (640)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ContactInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WAUCONDAILMember
     
Land and Improvements 699us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ContactInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WAUCONDAILMember
     
Building and Improvements 490us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ContactInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WAUCONDAILMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ContactInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WAUCONDAILMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ContactInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WAUCONDAILMember
     
Total 1,189us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ContactInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WAUCONDAILMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 76us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ContactInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WAUCONDAILMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ContactInterventionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WAUCONDAILMember
     
Northglenn DRC | Northglenn, CO        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthglennDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NorthglennCOMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 21us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthglennDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NorthglennCOMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthglennDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NorthglennCOMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthglennDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NorthglennCOMember
     
Building and Improvements 21us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthglennDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NorthglennCOMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthglennDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NorthglennCOMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthglennDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NorthglennCOMember
     
Total 21us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthglennDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NorthglennCOMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 20us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthglennDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NorthglennCOMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthglennDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NorthglennCOMember
     
Aurora DRC | Aurora, CO        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 21us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Building and Improvements 25us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Total 25us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 20us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AuroraDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Denver DRC | Denver, CO        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DenverCOMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 43us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DenverCOMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 284us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DenverCOMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DenverCOMember
     
Building and Improvements 327us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DenverCOMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DenverCOMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DenverCOMember
     
Total 327us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DenverCOMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 24us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DenverCOMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DenverCOMember
     
Elizabeth CRC | Elizabeth, NJ        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElizabethCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ElizabethNJMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 26us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElizabethCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ElizabethNJMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElizabethCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ElizabethNJMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElizabethCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ElizabethNJMember
     
Building and Improvements 26us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElizabethCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ElizabethNJMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElizabethCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ElizabethNJMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElizabethCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ElizabethNJMember
     
Total 26us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElizabethCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ElizabethNJMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 26us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElizabethCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ElizabethNJMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ElizabethCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ElizabethNJMember
     
Guilford Co. TECS | Greensboro, NC        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuilfordCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_GreensboroNCMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 21us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuilfordCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_GreensboroNCMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuilfordCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_GreensboroNCMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuilfordCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_GreensboroNCMember
     
Building and Improvements 21us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuilfordCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_GreensboroNCMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuilfordCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_GreensboroNCMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuilfordCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_GreensboroNCMember
     
Total 21us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuilfordCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_GreensboroNCMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 20us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuilfordCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_GreensboroNCMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_GuilfordCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_GreensboroNCMember
     
Mecklenburg Co. TECS | Charlotte, NC        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MecklenburgCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 26us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MecklenburgCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MecklenburgCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MecklenburgCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Building and Improvements 26us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MecklenburgCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MecklenburgCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MecklenburgCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Total 26us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MecklenburgCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 21us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MecklenburgCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MecklenburgCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Randolph Co. TECS | Asheboro, NC        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RandolphCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AsheboroNCMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 6us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RandolphCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AsheboroNCMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RandolphCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AsheboroNCMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RandolphCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AsheboroNCMember
     
Building and Improvements 6us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RandolphCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AsheboroNCMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RandolphCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AsheboroNCMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RandolphCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AsheboroNCMember
     
Total 6us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RandolphCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AsheboroNCMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RandolphCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AsheboroNCMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_RandolphCo.TECSMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AsheboroNCMember
     
Santa Ana CDCR | Santa Ana, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 113us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 113us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Total 113us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 76us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Los Angeles CDCR | Pamona, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PamonaCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 44us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PamonaCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PamonaCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PamonaCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 44us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PamonaCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PamonaCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PamonaCAMember
     
Total 44us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PamonaCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 12us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PamonaCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesCDCRMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PamonaCAMember
     
Tulare Co DRC | Visalia, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TulareCoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VISALIACAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 9us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TulareCoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VISALIACAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TulareCoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VISALIACAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TulareCoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VISALIACAMember
     
Building and Improvements 9us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TulareCoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VISALIACAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TulareCoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VISALIACAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TulareCoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VISALIACAMember
     
Total 9us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TulareCoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VISALIACAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 9us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TulareCoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VISALIACAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_TulareCoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VISALIACAMember
     
Merced DRC | Merced, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MercedDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MERCEDCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MercedDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MERCEDCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MercedDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MERCEDCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MercedDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MERCEDCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MercedDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MERCEDCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MercedDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MERCEDCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MercedDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MERCEDCAMember
     
Total 18us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MercedDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MERCEDCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 18us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MercedDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MERCEDCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MercedDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MERCEDCAMember
     
Kern County DRC | Bakersfield, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 23us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 23us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Total 23us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 22us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
San Diego DRC | San Diego, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 30us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 30us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Total 30us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 30us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Kern County Core SB678 | Bakersfield, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyCoreSB678Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 5us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyCoreSB678Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyCoreSB678Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyCoreSB678Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 5us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyCoreSB678Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyCoreSB678Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyCoreSB678Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Total 5us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyCoreSB678Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyCoreSB678Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KernCountyCoreSB678Member
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Orange DRC | Santa Ana, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrangeDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 72us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrangeDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrangeDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrangeDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 72us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrangeDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrangeDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrangeDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Total 72us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrangeDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 57us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrangeDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrangeDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SantaAnaCAMember
     
South Philadelphia PADOC DRC | Philadelphia, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthPhiladelphiaPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 124us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthPhiladelphiaPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthPhiladelphiaPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthPhiladelphiaPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 124us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthPhiladelphiaPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthPhiladelphiaPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthPhiladelphiaPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Total 124us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthPhiladelphiaPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 35us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthPhiladelphiaPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SouthPhiladelphiaPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Lycoming County DRC | Williamsport, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LycomingCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WilliamsportPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 56us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LycomingCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WilliamsportPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LycomingCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WilliamsportPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LycomingCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WilliamsportPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 56us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LycomingCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WilliamsportPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LycomingCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WilliamsportPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LycomingCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WilliamsportPAMember
     
Total 56us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LycomingCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WilliamsportPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LycomingCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WilliamsportPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LycomingCountyDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WilliamsportPAMember
     
Lehigh County PADOC DRC | Allentown, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LehighCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AllentownPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 139us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LehighCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AllentownPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LehighCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AllentownPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LehighCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AllentownPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 139us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LehighCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AllentownPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LehighCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AllentownPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LehighCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AllentownPAMember
     
Total 139us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LehighCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AllentownPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 40us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LehighCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AllentownPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LehighCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AllentownPAMember
     
Lancaster County PADOC DRC | Lancaster, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LancasterCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LancasterPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 73us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LancasterCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LancasterPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LancasterCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LancasterPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LancasterCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LancasterPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 73us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LancasterCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LancasterPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LancasterCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LancasterPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LancasterCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LancasterPAMember
     
Total 73us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LancasterCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LancasterPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 12us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LancasterCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LancasterPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LancasterCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LancasterPAMember
     
York County PADOC DRC | York, PA [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_YorkCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_YorkPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 7us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_YorkCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_YorkPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_YorkCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_YorkPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_YorkCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_YorkPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 7us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_YorkCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_YorkPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_YorkCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_YorkPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_YorkCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_YorkPAMember
     
Total 7us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_YorkCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_YorkPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_YorkCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_YorkPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_YorkCountyPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_YorkPAMember
     
North Pittsburgh PADOC DRC | Pittsburgh, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthPittsburghPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PITTSBURGHPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 81us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthPittsburghPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PITTSBURGHPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthPittsburghPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PITTSBURGHPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthPittsburghPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PITTSBURGHPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 81us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthPittsburghPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PITTSBURGHPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthPittsburghPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PITTSBURGHPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthPittsburghPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PITTSBURGHPAMember
     
Total 81us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthPittsburghPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PITTSBURGHPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 20us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthPittsburghPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PITTSBURGHPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NorthPittsburghPADOCDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PITTSBURGHPAMember
     
Luzerne EM | Wilkes Barre, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneEMMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 20us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneEMMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneEMMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneEMMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 20us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneEMMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneEMMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneEMMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Total 20us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneEMMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 20us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneEMMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneEMMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Atlantic City CRC | Atlantic City, NJ        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlanticCityCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTICCITYNJMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 10us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlanticCityCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTICCITYNJMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlanticCityCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTICCITYNJMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlanticCityCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTICCITYNJMember
     
Building and Improvements 10us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlanticCityCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTICCITYNJMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlanticCityCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTICCITYNJMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlanticCityCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTICCITYNJMember
     
Total 10us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlanticCityCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTICCITYNJMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlanticCityCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTICCITYNJMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlanticCityCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTICCITYNJMember
     
Perth Amboy CRC | Perth Amboy, NJ        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PerthAmboyCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PERTHAMBOYNJMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 19us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PerthAmboyCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PERTHAMBOYNJMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PerthAmboyCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PERTHAMBOYNJMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PerthAmboyCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PERTHAMBOYNJMember
     
Building and Improvements 19us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PerthAmboyCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PERTHAMBOYNJMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PerthAmboyCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PERTHAMBOYNJMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PerthAmboyCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PERTHAMBOYNJMember
     
Total 19us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PerthAmboyCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PERTHAMBOYNJMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 19us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PerthAmboyCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PERTHAMBOYNJMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PerthAmboyCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PERTHAMBOYNJMember
     
Neptune CRC | Neptune, NJ        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NeptuneCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEPTUNENJMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 16us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NeptuneCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEPTUNENJMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NeptuneCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEPTUNENJMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NeptuneCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEPTUNENJMember
     
Building and Improvements 16us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NeptuneCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEPTUNENJMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NeptuneCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEPTUNENJMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NeptuneCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEPTUNENJMember
     
Total 16us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NeptuneCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEPTUNENJMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 15us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NeptuneCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEPTUNENJMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NeptuneCRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEPTUNENJMember
     
Luzerne DRC | Wilkes Barre, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 110us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 7us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 117us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Total 117us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 111us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LuzerneDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WILKESBARREPAMember
     
Sedgwick DRC | Wichita, KS        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SedgwickDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WICHITAKSMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 23us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SedgwickDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WICHITAKSMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SedgwickDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WICHITAKSMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SedgwickDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WICHITAKSMember
     
Building and Improvements 23us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SedgwickDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WICHITAKSMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SedgwickDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WICHITAKSMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SedgwickDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WICHITAKSMember
     
Total 23us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SedgwickDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WICHITAKSMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 23us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SedgwickDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WICHITAKSMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SedgwickDRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WICHITAKSMember
     
Chicago West Grand SRC | Chicago, IL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoWestGrandSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 22us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoWestGrandSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoWestGrandSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoWestGrandSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Building and Improvements 22us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoWestGrandSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoWestGrandSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoWestGrandSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Total 22us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoWestGrandSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 22us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoWestGrandSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoWestGrandSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Decatur SRC | Decatur, IL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DecaturSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DECATURILMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 28us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DecaturSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DECATURILMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DecaturSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DECATURILMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DecaturSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DECATURILMember
     
Building and Improvements 28us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DecaturSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DECATURILMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DecaturSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DECATURILMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DecaturSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DECATURILMember
     
Total 28us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DecaturSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DECATURILMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 28us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DecaturSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DECATURILMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DecaturSRCMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DECATURILMember
     
Philadelphia ISAP | Philadelphia, PA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhiladelphiaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 36us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhiladelphiaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 378us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhiladelphiaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhiladelphiaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Building and Improvements 414us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhiladelphiaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhiladelphiaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhiladelphiaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Total 414us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhiladelphiaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 38us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhiladelphiaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhiladelphiaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHILADELPHIAPAMember
     
Miami ISAP | Miami, FL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MiamiISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MIAMIFLMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 82us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MiamiISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MIAMIFLMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 9us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MiamiISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MIAMIFLMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MiamiISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MIAMIFLMember
     
Building and Improvements 91us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MiamiISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MIAMIFLMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MiamiISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MIAMIFLMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MiamiISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MIAMIFLMember
     
Total 91us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MiamiISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MIAMIFLMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 82us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MiamiISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MIAMIFLMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_MiamiISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MIAMIFLMember
     
Orlando ISAP | Orlando, FL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrlandoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ORLANDOFLMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrlandoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ORLANDOFLMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrlandoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ORLANDOFLMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrlandoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ORLANDOFLMember
     
Building and Improvements 18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrlandoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ORLANDOFLMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrlandoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ORLANDOFLMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrlandoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ORLANDOFLMember
     
Total 18us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrlandoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ORLANDOFLMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 18us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrlandoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ORLANDOFLMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_OrlandoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ORLANDOFLMember
     
Atlanta ISAP | Atlanta, GA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlantaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTAGAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 54us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlantaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTAGAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlantaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTAGAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlantaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTAGAMember
     
Building and Improvements 54us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlantaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTAGAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlantaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTAGAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlantaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTAGAMember
     
Total 54us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlantaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTAGAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 53us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlantaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTAGAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AtlantaISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ATLANTAGAMember
     
Charlotte ISAP | Charlotte, NC        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CharlotteISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 9us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CharlotteISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CharlotteISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CharlotteISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Building and Improvements 9us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CharlotteISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CharlotteISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CharlotteISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Total 9us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CharlotteISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 9us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CharlotteISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CharlotteISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
New Orleans ISAP | New Orleans, LA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewOrleansISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWORLEANSLAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 8us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewOrleansISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWORLEANSLAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewOrleansISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWORLEANSLAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewOrleansISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWORLEANSLAMember
     
Building and Improvements 8us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewOrleansISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWORLEANSLAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewOrleansISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWORLEANSLAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewOrleansISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWORLEANSLAMember
     
Total 8us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewOrleansISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWORLEANSLAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewOrleansISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWORLEANSLAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewOrleansISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWORLEANSLAMember
     
Washington DC ISAP | Fairfax, VA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WashingtonDCISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRFAXVAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 12us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WashingtonDCISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRFAXVAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 20us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WashingtonDCISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRFAXVAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WashingtonDCISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRFAXVAMember
     
Building and Improvements 32us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WashingtonDCISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRFAXVAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WashingtonDCISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRFAXVAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WashingtonDCISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRFAXVAMember
     
Total 32us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WashingtonDCISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRFAXVAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 13us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WashingtonDCISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRFAXVAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WashingtonDCISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_FAIRFAXVAMember
     
Chicago ISAP | Chicago, IL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 25us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Building and Improvements 25us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Total 25us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 25us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ChicagoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CHICAGOILMember
     
Detroit ISAP | Detroit, MI        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DetroitISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DETROITMIMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DetroitISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DETROITMIMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DetroitISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DETROITMIMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DetroitISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DETROITMIMember
     
Building and Improvements 18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DetroitISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DETROITMIMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DetroitISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DETROITMIMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DetroitISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DETROITMIMember
     
Total 18us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DetroitISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DETROITMIMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 18us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DetroitISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DETROITMIMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DetroitISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DETROITMIMember
     
St Paul ISAP | Bloomington, MN        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_StPaulISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BLOOMINTONMNMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 6us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_StPaulISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BLOOMINTONMNMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_StPaulISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BLOOMINTONMNMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_StPaulISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BLOOMINTONMNMember
     
Building and Improvements 6us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_StPaulISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BLOOMINTONMNMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_StPaulISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BLOOMINTONMNMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_StPaulISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BLOOMINTONMNMember
     
Total 6us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_StPaulISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BLOOMINTONMNMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_StPaulISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BLOOMINTONMNMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_StPaulISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BLOOMINTONMNMember
     
Kansas City ISAP | Riverside, MO        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KansasCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_RiversideMOMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 8us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KansasCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_RiversideMOMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KansasCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_RiversideMOMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KansasCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_RiversideMOMember
     
Building and Improvements 8us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KansasCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_RiversideMOMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KansasCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_RiversideMOMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KansasCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_RiversideMOMember
     
Total 8us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KansasCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_RiversideMOMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KansasCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_RiversideMOMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KansasCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_RiversideMOMember
     
Denver ISAP | Centennial, CO        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CENTENNIALCOMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 15us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CENTENNIALCOMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CENTENNIALCOMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CENTENNIALCOMember
     
Building and Improvements 15us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CENTENNIALCOMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CENTENNIALCOMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CENTENNIALCOMember
     
Total 15us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CENTENNIALCOMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CENTENNIALCOMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DenverISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CENTENNIALCOMember
     
Portland ISAP | Portland, OR        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PortlandISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PortlandORMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 5us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PortlandISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PortlandORMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PortlandISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PortlandORMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PortlandISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PortlandORMember
     
Building and Improvements 5us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PortlandISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PortlandORMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PortlandISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PortlandORMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PortlandISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PortlandORMember
     
Total 5us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PortlandISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PortlandORMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PortlandISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PortlandORMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PortlandISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PortlandORMember
     
San Francisco ISAP | San Francisco, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanFranciscoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 92us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanFranciscoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanFranciscoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanFranciscoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 92us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanFranciscoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanFranciscoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanFranciscoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Total 92us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanFranciscoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 91us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanFranciscoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanFranciscoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANFRANCISCOCAMember
     
Salt Lake City ISAP | Murray, UT        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MURRAYUTMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 7us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MURRAYUTMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MURRAYUTMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MURRAYUTMember
     
Building and Improvements 7us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MURRAYUTMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MURRAYUTMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MURRAYUTMember
     
Total 7us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MURRAYUTMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MURRAYUTMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SaltLakeCityISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_MURRAYUTMember
     
Seattle ISAP | Tukwila, WA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeattleISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TUKWILAWAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 40us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeattleISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TUKWILAWAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 15us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeattleISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TUKWILAWAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeattleISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TUKWILAWAMember
     
Building and Improvements 55us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeattleISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TUKWILAWAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeattleISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TUKWILAWAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeattleISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TUKWILAWAMember
     
Total 55us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeattleISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TUKWILAWAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 41us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeattleISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TUKWILAWAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SeattleISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_TUKWILAWAMember
     
Bronx ISAP | Bronx, NY        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 31us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Building and Improvements 31us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Total 31us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 14us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BronxISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRONXNYMember
     
Manhattan ISAP | New York, NY        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ManhattanISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWYORKNYMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 10us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ManhattanISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWYORKNYMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ManhattanISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWYORKNYMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ManhattanISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWYORKNYMember
     
Building and Improvements 10us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ManhattanISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWYORKNYMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ManhattanISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWYORKNYMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ManhattanISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWYORKNYMember
     
Total 10us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ManhattanISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWYORKNYMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 10us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ManhattanISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWYORKNYMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ManhattanISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWYORKNYMember
     
Queens ISAP | Jamaica, NY        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 39us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 39us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Building and Improvements 78us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Total 78us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 39us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_QueensISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JAMAICANYMember
     
Boston ISAP | Burlington, MA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BostonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BURLINGTONMAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 13us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BostonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BURLINGTONMAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 80us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BostonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BURLINGTONMAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BostonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BURLINGTONMAMember
     
Building and Improvements 93us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BostonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BURLINGTONMAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BostonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BURLINGTONMAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BostonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BURLINGTONMAMember
     
Total 93us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BostonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BURLINGTONMAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 15us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BostonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BURLINGTONMAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BostonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BURLINGTONMAMember
     
Hartford ISAP | Hartford, CT        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HartfordISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HartfordCTMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 23us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HartfordISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HartfordCTMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HartfordISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HartfordCTMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HartfordISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HartfordCTMember
     
Building and Improvements 23us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HartfordISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HartfordCTMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HartfordISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HartfordCTMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HartfordISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HartfordCTMember
     
Total 23us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HartfordISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HartfordCTMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HartfordISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HartfordCTMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HartfordISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HartfordCTMember
     
Buffalo ISAP | Buffalo, NY        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BuffaloISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BUFFALONYMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 34us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BuffaloISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BUFFALONYMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BuffaloISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BUFFALONYMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BuffaloISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BUFFALONYMember
     
Building and Improvements 34us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BuffaloISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BUFFALONYMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BuffaloISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BUFFALONYMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BuffaloISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BUFFALONYMember
     
Total 34us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BuffaloISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BUFFALONYMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 34us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BuffaloISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BUFFALONYMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BuffaloISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BUFFALONYMember
     
Newark ISAP | Newark, NJ        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 30us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Building and Improvements 31us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Total 31us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 31us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_NewarkISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_NEWARKNJMember
     
Los Angeles ISAP | Los Angeles, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 35us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 35us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 70us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Total 70us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 35us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_LosAngelesISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
San Bernadino ISAP | San Bernadino, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanBernadinoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANBERNADINOCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 42us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanBernadinoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANBERNADINOCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanBernadinoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANBERNADINOCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanBernadinoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANBERNADINOCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 42us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanBernadinoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANBERNADINOCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanBernadinoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANBERNADINOCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanBernadinoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANBERNADINOCAMember
     
Total 42us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanBernadinoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANBERNADINOCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 42us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanBernadinoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANBERNADINOCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanBernadinoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANBERNADINOCAMember
     
Dallas ISAP | Dallas TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DallasISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DALLASTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 17us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DallasISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DALLASTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DallasISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DALLASTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DallasISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DALLASTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 17us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DallasISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DALLASTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DallasISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DALLASTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DallasISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DALLASTXMember
     
Total 17us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DallasISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DALLASTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 17us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DallasISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DALLASTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DallasISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_DALLASTXMember
     
Houston ISAP | Houston, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HoustonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 21us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HoustonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HoustonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HoustonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 21us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HoustonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HoustonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HoustonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Total 21us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HoustonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 21us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HoustonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HoustonISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HOUSTONTXMember
     
Phoenix ISAP | Phoenix, AZ        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhoenixISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 11us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhoenixISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhoenixISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhoenixISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Building and Improvements 11us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhoenixISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhoenixISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhoenixISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Total 11us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhoenixISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 11us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhoenixISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_PhoenixISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PHOENIXAZMember
     
San Antonio ISAP | San Antonio, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanAntonioISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 7us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanAntonioISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 48us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanAntonioISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanAntonioISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 55us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanAntonioISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanAntonioISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanAntonioISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Total 55us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanAntonioISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanAntonioISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanAntonioISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
San Diego ISAP | San Diego, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 14us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 14us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Total 14us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 13us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SanDiegoISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANDIEGOCAMember
     
Bakersfield ISAP | Bakersfield, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BakersfieldISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 16us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BakersfieldISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BakersfieldISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BakersfieldISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 16us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BakersfieldISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BakersfieldISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BakersfieldISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Total 16us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BakersfieldISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 16us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BakersfieldISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BakersfieldISAPMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BAKERSFIELDCAMember
     
Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre | Bisbane, Queensland AUS        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArthurGorrieCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRISBANEQUEENSLANDAUSMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArthurGorrieCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRISBANEQUEENSLANDAUSMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 170us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArthurGorrieCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRISBANEQUEENSLANDAUSMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArthurGorrieCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRISBANEQUEENSLANDAUSMember
     
Building and Improvements 170us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArthurGorrieCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRISBANEQUEENSLANDAUSMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArthurGorrieCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRISBANEQUEENSLANDAUSMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArthurGorrieCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRISBANEQUEENSLANDAUSMember
     
Total 170us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArthurGorrieCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRISBANEQUEENSLANDAUSMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 113us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArthurGorrieCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRISBANEQUEENSLANDAUSMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ArthurGorrieCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BRISBANEQUEENSLANDAUSMember
     
Fulham Correctional Centre & Fulham Nalu Challenge Community Unit | West Sale, Victoria AUS        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_FulhamCorrectionalCentreFulhamNaluChallengeCommunityUnitMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WESTSALEVICTORIAAUSMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_FulhamCorrectionalCentreFulhamNaluChallengeCommunityUnitMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WESTSALEVICTORIAAUSMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,634us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_FulhamCorrectionalCentreFulhamNaluChallengeCommunityUnitMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WESTSALEVICTORIAAUSMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_FulhamCorrectionalCentreFulhamNaluChallengeCommunityUnitMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WESTSALEVICTORIAAUSMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,634us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_FulhamCorrectionalCentreFulhamNaluChallengeCommunityUnitMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WESTSALEVICTORIAAUSMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_FulhamCorrectionalCentreFulhamNaluChallengeCommunityUnitMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WESTSALEVICTORIAAUSMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_FulhamCorrectionalCentreFulhamNaluChallengeCommunityUnitMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WESTSALEVICTORIAAUSMember
     
Total 1,634us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_FulhamCorrectionalCentreFulhamNaluChallengeCommunityUnitMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WESTSALEVICTORIAAUSMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 842us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_FulhamCorrectionalCentreFulhamNaluChallengeCommunityUnitMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WESTSALEVICTORIAAUSMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_FulhamCorrectionalCentreFulhamNaluChallengeCommunityUnitMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_WESTSALEVICTORIAAUSMember
     
Junee Correctional Centre | Junee, New South Wales, AUS        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JuneeCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JUNEENEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JuneeCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JUNEENEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,185us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JuneeCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JUNEENEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JuneeCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JUNEENEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,185us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JuneeCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JUNEENEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JuneeCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JUNEENEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JuneeCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JUNEENEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Total 1,185us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JuneeCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JUNEENEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 567us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JuneeCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JUNEENEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_JuneeCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_JUNEENEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Parklea Correctional Centre | Parklea, New South Wales, AUS        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkleaCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PARKLEANEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkleaCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PARKLEANEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,051us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkleaCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PARKLEANEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkleaCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PARKLEANEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,051us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkleaCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PARKLEANEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkleaCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PARKLEANEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkleaCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PARKLEANEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Total 1,051us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkleaCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PARKLEANEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 807us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkleaCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PARKLEANEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ParkleaCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_PARKLEANEWSOUTHWALESAUSMember
     
Dungavel House Immigration Removal Centre | Kidlington, England        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DungavelHouseImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KIDLINGTONENGLANDMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DungavelHouseImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KIDLINGTONENGLANDMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 65us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DungavelHouseImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KIDLINGTONENGLANDMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DungavelHouseImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KIDLINGTONENGLANDMember
     
Building and Improvements 65us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DungavelHouseImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KIDLINGTONENGLANDMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DungavelHouseImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KIDLINGTONENGLANDMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DungavelHouseImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KIDLINGTONENGLANDMember
     
Total 65us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DungavelHouseImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KIDLINGTONENGLANDMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 37us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DungavelHouseImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KIDLINGTONENGLANDMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_DungavelHouseImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_KIDLINGTONENGLANDMember
     
Harmondsworth Immigration Removal Centre | London, England        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HarmondsworthImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LONDONENGLANDMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HarmondsworthImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LONDONENGLANDMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 344us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HarmondsworthImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LONDONENGLANDMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HarmondsworthImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LONDONENGLANDMember
     
Building and Improvements 344us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HarmondsworthImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LONDONENGLANDMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HarmondsworthImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LONDONENGLANDMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HarmondsworthImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LONDONENGLANDMember
     
Total 344us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HarmondsworthImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LONDONENGLANDMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 344us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HarmondsworthImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LONDONENGLANDMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_HarmondsworthImmigrationRemovalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LONDONENGLANDMember
     
Kutama-Simthumle Correctional Centre | Louis Trichardt, South Africa        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KutamaSimthumleCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOUISTRICHARDTSOUTHAFRICAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KutamaSimthumleCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOUISTRICHARDTSOUTHAFRICAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 174us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KutamaSimthumleCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOUISTRICHARDTSOUTHAFRICAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KutamaSimthumleCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOUISTRICHARDTSOUTHAFRICAMember
     
Building and Improvements 174us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KutamaSimthumleCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOUISTRICHARDTSOUTHAFRICAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KutamaSimthumleCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOUISTRICHARDTSOUTHAFRICAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KutamaSimthumleCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOUISTRICHARDTSOUTHAFRICAMember
     
Total 174us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KutamaSimthumleCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOUISTRICHARDTSOUTHAFRICAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 124us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KutamaSimthumleCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOUISTRICHARDTSOUTHAFRICAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_KutamaSimthumleCorrectionalCentreMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOUISTRICHARDTSOUTHAFRICAMember
     
Corporate Headquarters | Boca Raton, FL        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CorporateHeadquartersMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BOCARATONFLMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 1,072us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CorporateHeadquartersMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BOCARATONFLMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 7,236us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CorporateHeadquartersMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BOCARATONFLMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CorporateHeadquartersMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BOCARATONFLMember
     
Building and Improvements 8,308us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CorporateHeadquartersMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BOCARATONFLMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CorporateHeadquartersMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BOCARATONFLMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CorporateHeadquartersMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BOCARATONFLMember
     
Total 8,308us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CorporateHeadquartersMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BOCARATONFLMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,156us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CorporateHeadquartersMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BOCARATONFLMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CorporateHeadquartersMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BOCARATONFLMember
     
Central Regional Office | San Antonio, TX        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 42us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Building and Improvements 42us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Total 42us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 20us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_CentralRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SANANTONIOTXMember
     
Eastern Regional Office | Charlotte, NC        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_EasternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_EasternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 11us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_EasternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_EasternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Building and Improvements 11us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_EasternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_EasternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_EasternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Total 11us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_EasternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_EasternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_EasternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_CharlotteNCMember
     
Western Regional Office | Los Angeles, CA        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 22us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 128us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Building and Improvements 150us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Total 150us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 16us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_WesternRegionalOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_LOSANGELESCAMember
     
Boulder, CO Point II | Boulder, CO        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BoulderCOPointIIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BoulderCOMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 629us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BoulderCOPointIIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BoulderCOMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 39us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BoulderCOPointIIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BoulderCOMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BoulderCOPointIIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BoulderCOMember
     
Building and Improvements 668us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BoulderCOPointIIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BoulderCOMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BoulderCOPointIIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BoulderCOMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BoulderCOPointIIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BoulderCOMember
     
Total 668us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BoulderCOPointIIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BoulderCOMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 552us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BoulderCOPointIIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BoulderCOMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_BoulderCOPointIIMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_BoulderCOMember
     
Sydney Office | Sydney, AUS        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SydneyOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SYDNEYAUSMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SydneyOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SYDNEYAUSMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,710us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SydneyOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SYDNEYAUSMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SydneyOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SYDNEYAUSMember
     
Building and Improvements 1,710us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SydneyOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SYDNEYAUSMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SydneyOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SYDNEYAUSMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SydneyOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SYDNEYAUSMember
     
Total 1,710us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SydneyOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SYDNEYAUSMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 65us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SydneyOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SYDNEYAUSMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_SydneyOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_SYDNEYAUSMember
     
UK Office | Hurley, England        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_UKOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HURLEYENGLANDMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_UKOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HURLEYENGLANDMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 364us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_UKOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HURLEYENGLANDMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_UKOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HURLEYENGLANDMember
     
Building and Improvements 364us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_UKOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HURLEYENGLANDMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_UKOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HURLEYENGLANDMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_UKOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HURLEYENGLANDMember
     
Total 364us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_UKOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HURLEYENGLANDMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 141us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_UKOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HURLEYENGLANDMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_UKOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_HURLEYENGLANDMember
     
Anderson, IN Call Center | Anderson, IN        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AndersonINCallCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANDERSONINMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AndersonINCallCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANDERSONINMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 138us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AndersonINCallCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANDERSONINMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AndersonINCallCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANDERSONINMember
     
Building and Improvements 138us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AndersonINCallCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANDERSONINMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AndersonINCallCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANDERSONINMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AndersonINCallCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANDERSONINMember
     
Total 138us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AndersonINCallCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANDERSONINMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 89us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AndersonINCallCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANDERSONINMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_AndersonINCallCenterMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_ANDERSONINMember
     
Protocol Office | Aurora, CO        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ProtocolOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 4us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ProtocolOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ProtocolOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Land and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ProtocolOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Building and Improvements 4us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ProtocolOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Land Held for Development 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ProtocolOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 0geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ProtocolOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Total 4us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ProtocolOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ProtocolOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= geo_ProtocolOfficeMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_AURORACOMember
     
Miscellaneous Investments | Various        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Original Land 16,635us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= us-gaap_MiscellaneousInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VARIOUSMember
     
Original Buildings and Improvements 4,324us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= us-gaap_MiscellaneousInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VARIOUSMember
     
Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,831us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= us-gaap_MiscellaneousInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VARIOUSMember
     
Land and Improvements 775us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= us-gaap_MiscellaneousInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VARIOUSMember
     
Building and Improvements 4,039us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= us-gaap_MiscellaneousInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VARIOUSMember
     
Land Held for Development 16,778geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofLandHeldforDevelopment
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= us-gaap_MiscellaneousInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VARIOUSMember
     
Development and Construction in Progress 1,198geo_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateandAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountofConstructioninProgress
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= us-gaap_MiscellaneousInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VARIOUSMember
     
Total 22,790us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= us-gaap_MiscellaneousInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VARIOUSMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,890us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= us-gaap_MiscellaneousInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VARIOUSMember
     
Book Value of Mortgaged Properties $ 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= us-gaap_MiscellaneousInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= geo_VARIOUSMember