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Schedule III Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (Detail) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances $ (2,012,246,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances      
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,050,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand      
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,596,349,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements      
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,091,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand      
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,296,363,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements      
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,387,913,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 4,228,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 4,044,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 3,960,692,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
Accumulated Depreciation (1,169,492,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation (1,058,540,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation (948,581,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation (807,329,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price (Deprecated 2013-01-31)     25,000,000els_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePrice  
Hillcrest [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (7,019,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,168,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,922,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Hidden Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenCoveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenCoveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 652,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 864,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenCoveMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (202,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenCoveMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Apache East        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApacheEastMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,236,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApacheEastMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApacheEastMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,236,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApacheEastMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApacheEastMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,436,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApacheEastMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (749,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApacheEastMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Apollo Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApolloVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 932,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApolloVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApolloVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 932,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApolloVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApolloVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,681,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApolloVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,871,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApolloVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Araby        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (3,020,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArabyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArabyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArabyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArabyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArabyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,573,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArabyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,837,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArabyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2003      
Cactus Gardens        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CactusGardensMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,992,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CactusGardensMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CactusGardensMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,992,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CactusGardensMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CactusGardensMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,344,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CactusGardensMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,223,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CactusGardensMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Capri RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (4,522,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CapriRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CapriRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,774,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CapriRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CapriRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CapriRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,645,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CapriRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,424,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CapriRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Carefree Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeManorMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 706,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeManorMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 706,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,883,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,589,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeManorMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,100,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeManorMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Casa del Sol East II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (4,323,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,103,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,103,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 9,095,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,198,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,962,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1996      
Casa del Sol East III        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIIMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIIMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,656,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIIMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,446,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIIMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Casa del Sol West I        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (9,114,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolWestIMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolWestIMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,467,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolWestIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolWestIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,724,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolWestIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,939,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolWestIMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,159,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolWestIMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1996      
Casita Verde RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (2,035,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasitaVerdeRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 719,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasitaVerdeRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasitaVerdeRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 719,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasitaVerdeRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasitaVerdeRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,997,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasitaVerdeRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (662,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasitaVerdeRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Central Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (14,684,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CentralParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,612,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CentralParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,784,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CentralParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,612,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CentralParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CentralParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CentralParkMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,577,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CentralParkMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Countryside RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,056,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,056,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,617,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,673,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,047,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Denali Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DenaliParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DenaliParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,016,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DenaliParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DenaliParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,084,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DenaliParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DenaliParkMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (718,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DenaliParkMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Desert Paradise        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertParadiseMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 666,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertParadiseMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertParadiseMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 666,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertParadiseMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertParadiseMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,895,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertParadiseMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (832,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertParadiseMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Desert Skies        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertSkiesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 792,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertSkiesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,126,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertSkiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 792,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertSkiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,843,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertSkiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,635,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertSkiesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,100,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertSkiesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Desert Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertVistaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 66,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertVistaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 66,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 419,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 485,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertVistaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (72,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertVistaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2010      
Fairview Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FairviewManorMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,674,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FairviewManorMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FairviewManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,674,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FairviewManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FairviewManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FairviewManorMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,683,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FairviewManorMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Fiesta Grande RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (8,591,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaGrandeRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaGrandeRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 8,653,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaGrandeRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaGrandeRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 9,423,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaGrandeRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 12,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaGrandeRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,613,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaGrandeRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Foothill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 459,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 459,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,619,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,078,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (605,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2003      
Foothills West RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (2,103,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsWestRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsWestRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsWestRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsWestRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,524,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsWestRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,271,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsWestRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (738,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsWestRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Golden Sun RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenSunRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenSunRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,049,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenSunRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenSunRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenSunRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,136,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenSunRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,240,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenSunRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Hacienda De Valencia        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (13,506,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaDeValenciaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 833,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaDeValenciaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,701,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaDeValenciaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 833,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaDeValenciaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaDeValenciaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,235,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaDeValenciaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,027,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaDeValenciaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1984      
Mesa Spirit [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (19,995,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaSpiritMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 17,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaSpiritMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 25,238,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaSpiritMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 17,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaSpiritMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 25,238,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaSpiritMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 42,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaSpiritMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaSpiritMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2014      
Mesa Verde        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaVerdeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,387,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaVerdeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,148,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaVerdeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,387,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaVerdeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaVerdeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaVerdeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,254,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaVerdeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2007      
Monte Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (24,210,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteVistaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 11,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteVistaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 34,355,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 11,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 38,577,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 49,979,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteVistaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (13,356,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteVistaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Palm Shadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (5,894,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmShadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmShadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmShadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmShadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,387,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmShadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmShadowsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,649,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmShadowsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1993      
Paradise [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (14,170,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 6,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 19,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 6,425,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 21,404,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 27,829,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (8,196,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Sedona Shadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (10,366,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SedonaShadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SedonaShadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,431,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SedonaShadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SedonaShadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SedonaShadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,933,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SedonaShadowsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,557,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SedonaShadowsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Seyenna Vistas [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeyennaVistasMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeyennaVistasMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeyennaVistasMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeyennaVistasMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,409,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeyennaVistasMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,683,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeyennaVistasMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,565,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeyennaVistasMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Suni Sands        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SuniSandsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,249,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SuniSandsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,759,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SuniSandsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,249,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SuniSandsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,137,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SuniSandsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,386,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SuniSandsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,508,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SuniSandsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Sunrise Heights        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunriseHeightsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunriseHeightsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,016,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunriseHeightsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunriseHeightsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,509,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunriseHeightsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,509,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunriseHeightsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,711,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunriseHeightsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Sunshine Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 9,139,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 12,912,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 9,139,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 13,053,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 22,192,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineValleyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,271,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineValleyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
The Highlands at Brentwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (14,774,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandsAtBrentwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,997,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandsAtBrentwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,024,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandsAtBrentwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,997,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandsAtBrentwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,079,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandsAtBrentwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,076,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandsAtBrentwoodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,271,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandsAtBrentwoodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1993      
Meadows [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,887,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 11,767,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 14,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (7,225,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Valley Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ValleyVistaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 115,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ValleyVistaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 429,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ValleyVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 115,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ValleyVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 471,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ValleyVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 586,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ValleyVistaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (89,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ValleyVistaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2010      
Venture In        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,061,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VentureInMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VentureInMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VentureInMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VentureInMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,592,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VentureInMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,642,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VentureInMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,940,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VentureInMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Verde Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VerdeValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VerdeValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VerdeValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VerdeValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VerdeValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,051,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VerdeValleyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,495,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VerdeValleyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Viewpoint        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (56,939,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ViewpointMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 24,890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ViewpointMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 56,340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ViewpointMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 24,905,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ViewpointMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 64,271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ViewpointMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 89,176,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ViewpointMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (22,732,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ViewpointMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Westpark        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (9,465,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestparkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestparkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 10,517,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestparkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestparkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 10,644,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestparkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 15,139,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestparkMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,783,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestparkMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Whispering Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPalmsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPalmsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,144,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPalmsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,422,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPalmsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Cultus Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CultusLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CultusLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 968,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CultusLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CultusLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CultusLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,607,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CultusLakeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (397,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CultusLakeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
California Hawaiian [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (30,673,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CaliforniaHawaiianMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CaliforniaHawaiianMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 17,755,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CaliforniaHawaiianMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CaliforniaHawaiianMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 21,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CaliforniaHawaiianMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 27,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CaliforniaHawaiianMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (11,913,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CaliforniaHawaiianMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Colony Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,584,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyParkMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,102,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyParkMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Concord Cascade        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (11,345,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ConcordCascadeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ConcordCascadeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,016,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ConcordCascadeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ConcordCascadeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,126,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ConcordCascadeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,111,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ConcordCascadeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,100,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ConcordCascadeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Contempo Marin        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ContempoMarinMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ContempoMarinMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 16,379,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ContempoMarinMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ContempoMarinMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 19,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ContempoMarinMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 24,521,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ContempoMarinMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (13,230,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ContempoMarinMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Coralwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (5,525,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,047,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,652,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,652,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralwoodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,284,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralwoodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Date Palm Country Club        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmCountryClubMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmCountryClubMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 18,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmCountryClubMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmCountryClubMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 23,442,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmCountryClubMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 23,442,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmCountryClubMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (15,562,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmCountryClubMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Date Palm RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 216,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (370,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
DeAnza Santa Cruz        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (12,688,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DeAnzaSantaCruzMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,103,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DeAnzaSantaCruzMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DeAnzaSantaCruzMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,103,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DeAnzaSantaCruzMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 10,113,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DeAnzaSantaCruzMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 12,216,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DeAnzaSantaCruzMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,166,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DeAnzaSantaCruzMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Four Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FourSeasonsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FourSeasonsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,348,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FourSeasonsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FourSeasonsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,894,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FourSeasonsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FourSeasonsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,628,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FourSeasonsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Idyllwild        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IdyllwildMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 313,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IdyllwildMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IdyllwildMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 317,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IdyllwildMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,702,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IdyllwildMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,019,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IdyllwildMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (541,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IdyllwildMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Laguna Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LagunaLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LagunaLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LagunaLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LagunaLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LagunaLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,059,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LagunaLakeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,104,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LagunaLakeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Lake Minden        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMindenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 961,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMindenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,267,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMindenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 974,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMindenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,071,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMindenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMindenMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,016,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMindenMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Lake of the Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeOfSpringsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,062,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeOfSpringsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeOfSpringsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,076,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeOfSpringsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,519,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeOfSpringsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeOfSpringsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,110,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeOfSpringsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Lamplighter        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (22,134,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LamplighterMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LamplighterMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LamplighterMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LamplighterMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,621,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LamplighterMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,254,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LamplighterMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,981,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LamplighterMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Las Palmas        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasPalmasMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,295,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasPalmasMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,866,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasPalmasMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,295,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasPalmasMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasPalmasMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,785,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasPalmasMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,567,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasPalmasMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Los Ranchos        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (12,717,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LosRanchosMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 8,336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LosRanchosMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 15,774,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LosRanchosMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 8,336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LosRanchosMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 15,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LosRanchosMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 24,267,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LosRanchosMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,777,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LosRanchosMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Meadowbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowbrookMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowbrookMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 12,528,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowbrookMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowbrookMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 14,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowbrookMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 18,932,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowbrookMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (7,978,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowbrookMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Monte del Lago        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (20,002,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteDelLagoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteDelLagoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 9,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteDelLagoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteDelLagoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 12,633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteDelLagoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 15,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteDelLagoMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,782,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteDelLagoMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Morgan Hill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MorganHillMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MorganHillMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,378,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MorganHillMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,881,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MorganHillMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MorganHillMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,193,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MorganHillMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,661,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MorganHillMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Nicholson Plaza        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NicholsonPlazaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NicholsonPlazaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NicholsonPlazaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NicholsonPlazaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NicholsonPlazaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NicholsonPlazaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,786,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NicholsonPlazaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Oakzanita Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakzanitaSpringsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 396,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakzanitaSpringsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 934,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakzanitaSpringsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakzanitaSpringsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,965,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakzanitaSpringsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,366,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakzanitaSpringsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (642,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakzanitaSpringsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Pacific Dunes Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificDunesRanchMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificDunesRanchMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,632,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificDunesRanchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificDunesRanchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,762,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificDunesRanchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,702,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificDunesRanchMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,067,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificDunesRanchMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Palm Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmSpringsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,811,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmSpringsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmSpringsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmSpringsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,744,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmSpringsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmSpringsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,695,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmSpringsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Parque La Quinta        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParqueLaQuintaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParqueLaQuintaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParqueLaQuintaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParqueLaQuintaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,009,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParqueLaQuintaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,808,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParqueLaQuintaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,060,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParqueLaQuintaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Pio Pico        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioPicoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,626,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioPicoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,194,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioPicoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,661,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioPicoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioPicoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,207,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioPicoMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,561,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioPicoMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Ponderosa        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PonderosaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PonderosaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PonderosaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PonderosaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PonderosaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PonderosaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (733,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PonderosaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Quail Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailMeadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,155,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailMeadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailMeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,155,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailMeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailMeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,115,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailMeadowsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,190,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailMeadowsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Rancho Mesa        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (8,555,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoMesaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoMesaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,389,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoMesaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoMesaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,225,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoMesaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,355,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoMesaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,931,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoMesaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Rancho Oso        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoOsoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoOsoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,029,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoOsoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 871,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoOsoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoOsoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoOsoMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (939,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoOsoMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Rancho Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (7,044,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,902,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,891,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoValleyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,620,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoValleyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Royal Holiday        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalHolidayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 778,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalHolidayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalHolidayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 778,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalHolidayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,098,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalHolidayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalHolidayMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,243,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalHolidayMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1999      
Royal Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,921,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,334,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalOaksMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,460,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalOaksMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Russian River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RussianRiverMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 368,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RussianRiverMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 868,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RussianRiverMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 373,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RussianRiverMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RussianRiverMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,413,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RussianRiverMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (346,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RussianRiverMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
San Benito        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanBenitoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanBenitoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,328,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanBenitoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanBenitoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,589,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanBenitoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,019,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanBenitoMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,458,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanBenitoMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
San Francisco RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanFranciscoRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanFranciscoRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanFranciscoRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanFranciscoRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,814,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanFranciscoRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanFranciscoRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,819,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanFranciscoRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2005      
Santa Cruz Ranch RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantaCruzRanchRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantaCruzRanchRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,937,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantaCruzRanchRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantaCruzRanchRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantaCruzRanchRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,892,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantaCruzRanchRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,032,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantaCruzRanchRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2007      
Santiago Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantiagoEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantiagoEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 10,767,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantiagoEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantiagoEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 12,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantiagoEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 16,044,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantiagoEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,712,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantiagoEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Sea Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 871,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 871,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,159,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaOaksMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,823,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaOaksMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Snowflower        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SnowflowerMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 308,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SnowflowerMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 727,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SnowflowerMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SnowflowerMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SnowflowerMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,816,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SnowflowerMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (399,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SnowflowerMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Soledad Canyon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SoledadCanyonMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,933,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SoledadCanyonMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,917,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SoledadCanyonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,972,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SoledadCanyonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 10,584,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SoledadCanyonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 13,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SoledadCanyonMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,876,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SoledadCanyonMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Sunshadow        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshadowMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshadowMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,707,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshadowMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshadowMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,101,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshadowMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,101,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshadowMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,484,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshadowMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Tahoe Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TahoeValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TahoeValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,428,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TahoeValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TahoeValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TahoeValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,856,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TahoeValleyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,113,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TahoeValleyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Turtle Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TurtleBeachMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TurtleBeachMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TurtleBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 272,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TurtleBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 869,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TurtleBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TurtleBeachMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (277,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TurtleBeachMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Village of the Four Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageOfFourSeasonsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageOfFourSeasonsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 15,714,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageOfFourSeasonsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageOfFourSeasonsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 16,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageOfFourSeasonsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 21,681,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageOfFourSeasonsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,776,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageOfFourSeasonsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Westwinds (4 properties)        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_Westwinds4PropertiesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_Westwinds4PropertiesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 17,616,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_Westwinds4PropertiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_Westwinds4PropertiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 25,894,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_Westwinds4PropertiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 25,894,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_Westwinds4PropertiesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (14,915,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_Westwinds4PropertiesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Wilderness Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WildernessLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WildernessLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WildernessLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,186,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WildernessLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WildernessLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,834,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WildernessLakeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,080,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WildernessLakeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Yosemite Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YosemiteLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YosemiteLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,823,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YosemiteLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,072,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YosemiteLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,814,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YosemiteLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,886,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YosemiteLakesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,075,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YosemiteLakesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Bear Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCreekMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCreekMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,359,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,839,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,939,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCreekMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,112,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCreekMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Cimarron        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (21,596,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 863,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 863,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,914,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,777,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,078,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Golden Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,055,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Golden Terrace South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceSouthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceSouthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,092,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceSouthMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,744,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceSouthMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Golden Terrace West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceWestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceWestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,065,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceWestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceWestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceWestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,898,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceWestMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,428,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceWestMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1986      
Hillcrest Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,912,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,202,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,755,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,956,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (7,303,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Holiday Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (33,506,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayHillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,159,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayHillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,159,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 13,186,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 15,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayHillsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (11,110,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayHillsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Holiday Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 567,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,759,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 567,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,602,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Holiday Village I I I [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (9,372,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageOrmandMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageOrmandMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageOrmandMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageOrmandMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageOrmandMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,887,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageOrmandMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,370,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageOrmandMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Pueblo Grande        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,953,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PuebloGrandeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PuebloGrandeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,069,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PuebloGrandeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PuebloGrandeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,859,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PuebloGrandeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PuebloGrandeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,520,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PuebloGrandeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Woodland Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandHillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandHillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,408,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,308,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandHillsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,873,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandHillsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Stonegate Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (7,127,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StonegateManorMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 6,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StonegateManorMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 12,336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StonegateManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 6,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StonegateManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 12,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StonegateManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 18,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StonegateManorMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,246,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StonegateManorMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Aspen Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AspenMeadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,148,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AspenMeadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AspenMeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,148,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AspenMeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,025,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AspenMeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,173,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AspenMeadowsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,260,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AspenMeadowsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Camelot Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (11,618,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CamelotMeadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 527,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CamelotMeadowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CamelotMeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,778,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CamelotMeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,475,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CamelotMeadowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CamelotMeadowsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,487,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CamelotMeadowsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Mariners Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (21,986,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MarinersCoveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MarinersCoveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,971,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MarinersCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MarinersCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,806,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MarinersCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,796,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MarinersCoveMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,784,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MarinersCoveMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1987      
McNicol        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (2,415,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_McNicolMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_McNicolMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_McNicolMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_McNicolMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,924,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_McNicolMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,486,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_McNicolMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,030,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_McNicolMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Sweetbriar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SweetbriarMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SweetbriarMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,527,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SweetbriarMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SweetbriarMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SweetbriarMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SweetbriarMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,200,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SweetbriarMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Waterford        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (27,585,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterfordMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterfordMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 16,202,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterfordMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterfordMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 17,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterfordMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 23,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterfordMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,837,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterfordMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1996      
Whispering Pines        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (8,796,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,609,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,844,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1988      
Audubon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AudubonMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,622,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AudubonMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AudubonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,622,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AudubonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AudubonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,918,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AudubonMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,334,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AudubonMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Barrington Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (4,866,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BarringtonHillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,145,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BarringtonHillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BarringtonHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,145,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BarringtonHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,978,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BarringtonHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,123,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BarringtonHillsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,529,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BarringtonHillsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Bay Indies        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (70,942,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayIndiesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 10,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayIndiesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 31,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayIndiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 10,493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayIndiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 37,642,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayIndiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 48,135,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayIndiesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (24,580,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayIndiesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Bay Lake Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLakeEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLakeEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLakeEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLakeEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,189,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLakeEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLakeEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,150,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLakeEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Beacon Hill Colony        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconHillColonyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,775,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconHillColonyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconHillColonyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,775,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconHillColonyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconHillColonyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,223,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconHillColonyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,076,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconHillColonyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Beacon Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,803,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconTerraceMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconTerraceMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 9,153,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconTerraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconTerraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 9,272,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconTerraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 14,644,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconTerraceMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,642,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconTerraceMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Breezy Hill RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (19,862,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BreezyHillRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,424,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BreezyHillRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 16,555,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BreezyHillRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,424,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BreezyHillRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 18,272,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BreezyHillRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 23,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BreezyHillRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (7,386,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BreezyHillRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Buccaneer        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (34,638,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuccaneerMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuccaneerMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 14,410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuccaneerMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuccaneerMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 17,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuccaneerMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 21,589,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuccaneerMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (11,177,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuccaneerMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Bulow Village RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowVillageRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowVillageRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 228,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowVillageRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowVillageRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowVillageRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowVillageRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (559,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowVillageRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Bulow Plantation        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowPlantationMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,637,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowPlantationMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 949,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowPlantationMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,637,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowPlantationMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowPlantationMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowPlantationMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,778,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowPlantationMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Carefree Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeCoveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeCoveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,490,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeCoveMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,017,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeCoveMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Carefree Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 6,799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 10,421,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 6,799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 10,603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 17,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,007,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Carriage Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (11,386,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarriageCoveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,914,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarriageCoveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 8,682,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarriageCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,914,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarriageCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 10,031,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarriageCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 12,945,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarriageCoveMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,631,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarriageCoveMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Cheron Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (5,614,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CheronVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 10,393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CheronVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CheronVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 10,393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CheronVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CheronVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 16,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CheronVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,471,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CheronVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Clerbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (10,264,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ClerbrookMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,883,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ClerbrookMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 11,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ClerbrookMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,883,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ClerbrookMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 13,031,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ClerbrookMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 16,914,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ClerbrookMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,772,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ClerbrookMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Clover Leaf Farms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (21,316,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafFarmsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 13,684,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafFarmsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 24,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafFarmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 13,684,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafFarmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 24,519,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafFarmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 38,203,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafFarmsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,257,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafFarmsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Clover Leaf Forest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafForestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,092,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafForestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafForestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,092,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafForestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafForestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,417,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafForestMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (240,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafForestMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Coachwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,822,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachwoodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,900,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachwoodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Colony Cove [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (114,592,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyCoveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 28,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyCoveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 92,457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 64,519,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 94,388,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyCoveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 158,907,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyCoveMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (16,244,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyCoveMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Coquina Crossing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoquinaCrossingMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoquinaCrossingMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,545,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoquinaCrossingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoquinaCrossingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 23,471,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoquinaCrossingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 28,745,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoquinaCrossingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (8,960,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoquinaCrossingMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1999      
Coral Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (22,358,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralCayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralCayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 20,211,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralCayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralCayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 28,031,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralCayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 33,921,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralCayMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (17,517,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralCayMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Country Place        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (22,786,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountryPlaceMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 663,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountryPlaceMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountryPlaceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 681,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountryPlaceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,638,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountryPlaceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountryPlaceMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,344,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountryPlaceMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1986      
Countryside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,711,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 11,133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,711,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 18,076,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 21,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (9,386,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Covington Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CovingtonEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CovingtonEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CovingtonEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CovingtonEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,331,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CovingtonEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CovingtonEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,293,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CovingtonEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Crystal Isles        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalIslesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 926,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalIslesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalIslesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 936,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalIslesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalIslesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,781,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalIslesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,350,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalIslesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Crystal Lakes-Zephyrhills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalLakesZephyrhillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,767,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalLakesZephyrhillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,834,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalLakesZephyrhillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,767,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalLakesZephyrhillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,955,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalLakesZephyrhillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalLakesZephyrhillsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,258,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalLakesZephyrhillsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Down Yonder        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (12,460,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DownYonderMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,652,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DownYonderMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,981,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DownYonderMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,652,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DownYonderMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,857,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DownYonderMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,509,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DownYonderMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,538,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DownYonderMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
East Bay Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (10,832,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EastBayOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EastBayOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,322,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EastBayOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EastBayOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EastBayOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EastBayOaksMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,929,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EastBayOaksMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Eldorado Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EldoradoVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 778,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EldoradoVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EldoradoVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 778,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EldoradoVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EldoradoVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,173,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EldoradoVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,831,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EldoradoVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Emerald Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EmeraldLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,598,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EmeraldLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EmeraldLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,598,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EmeraldLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EmeraldLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,018,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EmeraldLakeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (952,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EmeraldLakeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Featherock        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (21,817,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FeatherockMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 11,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FeatherockMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 22,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FeatherockMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 11,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FeatherockMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 23,077,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FeatherockMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 34,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FeatherockMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,583,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FeatherockMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Fiesta Key [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaKeyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 16,611,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaKeyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaKeyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 16,611,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaKeyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,413,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaKeyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 25,024,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaKeyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (363,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaKeyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2013      
Fort Myers Beach Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FortMyersBeachResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FortMyersBeachResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,548,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FortMyersBeachResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FortMyersBeachResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FortMyersBeachResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,052,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FortMyersBeachResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,518,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FortMyersBeachResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Foxwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoxwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,853,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoxwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,967,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoxwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,853,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoxwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoxwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoxwoodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,594,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoxwoodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Glen Ellen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenEllenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 619,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenEllenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,882,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenEllenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 619,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenEllenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,062,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenEllenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,681,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenEllenMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (833,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenEllenMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Grand Island        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandIslandMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,723,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandIslandMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandIslandMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandIslandMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 9,503,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandIslandMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandIslandMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,980,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandIslandMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2001      
Gulf Air Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,798,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfAirResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,609,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfAirResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,746,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfAirResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,609,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfAirResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,092,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfAirResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,701,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfAirResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,858,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfAirResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Gulf View        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfViewMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 717,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfViewMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,158,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfViewMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 717,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfViewMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,248,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfViewMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,965,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfViewMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,234,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfViewMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Hacienda Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (19,951,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 13,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 15,517,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 19,814,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,956,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Harbor Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 10,154,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 10,840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 14,224,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborLakesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,916,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborLakesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Harbor View [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,030,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 12,146,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,030,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 12,401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 16,431,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,113,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Haselton Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,739,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaseltonVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaseltonVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 8,955,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaseltonVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaseltonVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 9,072,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaseltonVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 12,872,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaseltonVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,471,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaseltonVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Heritage Plantation        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritagePlantationMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritagePlantationMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,259,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritagePlantationMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritagePlantationMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 9,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritagePlantationMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,772,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritagePlantationMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,164,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritagePlantationMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Heron Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (31,152,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeronCayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 14,368,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeronCayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 23,792,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeronCayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 14,368,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeronCayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 24,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeronCayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 38,518,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeronCayMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,049,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeronCayMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Hidden Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (9,178,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 11,398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 12,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 11,398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 13,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 24,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenValleyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,352,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenValleyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Highland Wood RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandWoodRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,043,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandWoodRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandWoodRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,085,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandWoodRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,409,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandWoodRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandWoodRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,400,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandWoodRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Holiday Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (4,411,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayRanchMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayRanchMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,866,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayRanchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayRanchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayRanchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayRanchMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,840,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayRanchMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Holiday Village II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageVeroMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageVeroMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageVeroMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageVeroMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,594,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageVeroMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,944,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageVeroMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (904,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageVeroMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Indian Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,376,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,349,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,438,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianOaksMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,470,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianOaksMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Island Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (14,230,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IslandVistaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IslandVistaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 15,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IslandVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IslandVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 15,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IslandVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 20,671,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IslandVistaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,321,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IslandVistaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Kings & Queens        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KingsQueensMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KingsQueensMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,064,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KingsQueensMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KingsQueensMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,108,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KingsQueensMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KingsQueensMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (570,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KingsQueensMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Lake Fairways        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (45,571,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeFairwaysMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 6,075,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeFairwaysMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 18,134,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeFairwaysMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 6,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeFairwaysMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 20,513,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeFairwaysMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 26,623,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeFairwaysMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (13,467,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeFairwaysMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Lake Haven        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (10,240,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeHavenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,135,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeHavenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,047,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeHavenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,135,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeHavenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeHavenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,486,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeHavenMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,528,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeHavenMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Lake Magic        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMagicMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMagicMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMagicMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMagicMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMagicMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,047,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMagicMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,957,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMagicMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Lake Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (18,478,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 15,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 18,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 15,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 18,356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 34,206,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,094,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Lake Worth Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (10,664,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWorthVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 14,959,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWorthVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 24,501,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWorthVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 14,959,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWorthVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 25,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWorthVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 40,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWorthVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,663,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWorthVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Lakeland Harbor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (16,553,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandHarborMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 10,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandHarborMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 17,376,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandHarborMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 10,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandHarborMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 17,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandHarborMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 27,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandHarborMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,966,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandHarborMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Lakeland Junction        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (4,162,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandJunctionMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,018,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandJunctionMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,752,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandJunctionMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,018,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandJunctionMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandJunctionMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,827,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandJunctionMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (856,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandJunctionMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Lakes at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (9,843,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesAtCountrywoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,377,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesAtCountrywoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,085,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesAtCountrywoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,377,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesAtCountrywoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,883,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesAtCountrywoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesAtCountrywoodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,985,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesAtCountrywoodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2001      
Lakeside Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideTerraceMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideTerraceMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideTerraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideTerraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideTerraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,615,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideTerraceMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,244,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideTerraceMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Lakewood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,776,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Lighthouse Pointe        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (12,866,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LighthousePointeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LighthousePointeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LighthousePointeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LighthousePointeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,868,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LighthousePointeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,337,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LighthousePointeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,012,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LighthousePointeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Manatee        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManateeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManateeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,903,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManateeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManateeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,528,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManateeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,828,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManateeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,755,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManateeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Maralago Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaralagoCayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaralagoCayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 15,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaralagoCayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaralagoCayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 20,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaralagoCayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 26,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaralagoCayMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (11,276,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaralagoCayMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Meadows at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (21,647,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsAtCountrywoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsAtCountrywoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 13,175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsAtCountrywoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsAtCountrywoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 17,766,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsAtCountrywoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 22,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsAtCountrywoodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (9,563,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsAtCountrywoodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Mid-Florida Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MidFloridaLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,997,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MidFloridaLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 20,635,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MidFloridaLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,997,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MidFloridaLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 30,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MidFloridaLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 36,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MidFloridaLakesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (18,440,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MidFloridaLakesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Orange Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (5,272,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrangeLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,303,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrangeLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,815,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrangeLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,303,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrangeLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,085,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrangeLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,388,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrangeLakeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,292,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrangeLakeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Oak Bend        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakBendMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakBendMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,572,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakBendMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakBendMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,933,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakBendMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakBendMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,560,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakBendMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1993      
Oaks at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (4,055,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtCountrywoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 846,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtCountrywoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,513,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtCountrywoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 846,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtCountrywoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,753,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtCountrywoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,599,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtCountrywoodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,092,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtCountrywoodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Orlando        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrlandoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,975,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrlandoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrlandoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrlandoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 9,454,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrlandoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 12,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrlandoMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,941,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrlandoMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Palm Beach Colony        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmBeachColonyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmBeachColonyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 10,113,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmBeachColonyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,938,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmBeachColonyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 10,465,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmBeachColonyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 16,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmBeachColonyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,828,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmBeachColonyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Park City West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (14,051,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkCityWestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,184,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkCityWestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 12,561,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkCityWestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,184,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkCityWestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 13,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkCityWestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 17,578,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkCityWestMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,834,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkCityWestMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Parkwood Communities        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (9,519,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkwoodCommunitiesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 6,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkwoodCommunitiesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 15,115,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkwoodCommunitiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 6,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkwoodCommunitiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 15,348,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkwoodCommunitiesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 22,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkwoodCommunitiesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,679,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkwoodCommunitiesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Pasco        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (4,266,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PascoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PascoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PascoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PascoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PascoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,612,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PascoMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,815,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PascoMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Peace River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PeaceRiverMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PeaceRiverMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PeaceRiverMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PeaceRiverMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PeaceRiverMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PeaceRiverMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (742,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PeaceRiverMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Pickwick        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (20,698,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PickwickMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PickwickMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 8,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PickwickMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PickwickMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 10,155,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PickwickMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 12,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PickwickMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,623,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PickwickMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Pine Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (35,068,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 6,306,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 14,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 6,327,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 21,937,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 28,264,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineLakesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (13,996,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineLakesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Pioneer Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (14,797,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioneerVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioneerVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 12,353,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioneerVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioneerVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 14,074,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioneerVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 18,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioneerVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,164,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioneerVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Ramblers Rest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (14,150,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RamblersRestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RamblersRestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 14,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RamblersRestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RamblersRestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 18,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RamblersRestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 23,577,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RamblersRestMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,843,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RamblersRestMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Ridgewood Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (10,159,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RidgewoodEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 6,769,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RidgewoodEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 8,791,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RidgewoodEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 6,769,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RidgewoodEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,917,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RidgewoodEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 15,686,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RidgewoodEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,659,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RidgewoodEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Royal Coachman        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (11,699,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalCoachmanMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,321,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalCoachmanMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 15,978,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalCoachmanMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,321,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalCoachmanMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 17,285,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalCoachmanMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 22,606,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalCoachmanMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,308,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalCoachmanMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Shady Lane Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (5,712,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 8,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,586,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 13,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneOaksMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,615,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneOaksMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Shady Lane Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,609,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,031,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Shangri La        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShangriLaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShangriLaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShangriLaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShangriLaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShangriLaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,123,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShangriLaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,942,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShangriLaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Sherwood Forest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (28,712,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,852,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 14,596,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,852,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 20,769,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 25,621,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (10,843,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Sherwood Forest RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,621,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,692,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,413,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Silk Oak        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilkOakMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,649,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilkOakMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,028,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilkOakMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,649,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilkOakMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,227,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilkOakMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilkOakMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,114,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilkOakMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Silver Dollar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (13,530,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilverDollarMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,107,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilverDollarMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 12,431,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilverDollarMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilverDollarMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 14,361,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilverDollarMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 18,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilverDollarMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,229,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilverDollarMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Sixth Ave.        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SixthAveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SixthAveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,518,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SixthAveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SixthAveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SixthAveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,416,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SixthAveMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (951,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SixthAveMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Southern Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernPalmsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernPalmsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,884,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 9,193,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,362,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernPalmsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,856,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernPalmsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Southernaire [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernaireMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 796,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernaireMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernaireMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 796,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernaireMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,518,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernaireMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernaireMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (911,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernaireMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Space Coast RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpaceCoastRVResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,413,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpaceCoastRVResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,716,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpaceCoastRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,413,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpaceCoastRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,716,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpaceCoastRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpaceCoastRVResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (34,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpaceCoastRVResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2014      
Starlight Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StarlightRanchMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 13,543,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StarlightRanchMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 20,388,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StarlightRanchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 13,543,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StarlightRanchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 20,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StarlightRanchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 34,419,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StarlightRanchMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,027,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StarlightRanchMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Sunshine Holiday MH        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayMHMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,001,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayMHMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayMHMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,001,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayMHMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,761,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayMHMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,762,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayMHMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,576,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayMHMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Sunshine Holiday RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 9,286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 9,946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 13,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,386,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Sunshine Key        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineKeyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,273,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineKeyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 15,822,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineKeyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,273,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineKeyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 18,124,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineKeyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 23,397,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineKeyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,599,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineKeyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Sunshine Travel        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineTravelMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineTravelMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineTravelMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineTravelMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineTravelMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,790,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineTravelMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,843,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineTravelMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Tarpon Glen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TarponGlenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TarponGlenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,016,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TarponGlenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TarponGlenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,073,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TarponGlenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,751,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TarponGlenMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (819,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TarponGlenMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Terra Ceia        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TerraCeiaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 965,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TerraCeiaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,905,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TerraCeiaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 965,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TerraCeiaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TerraCeiaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,142,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TerraCeiaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,124,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TerraCeiaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
The Heritage        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (11,550,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,371,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,784,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,621,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,377,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1993      
The Meadows II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (10,872,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsIiMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsIiMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 9,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsIiMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsIiMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 15,585,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsIiMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 18,814,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsIiMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,234,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsIiMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1999      
Three Flags RV Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThreeFlagsRVResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 228,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThreeFlagsRVResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 684,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThreeFlagsRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 228,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThreeFlagsRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 905,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThreeFlagsRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,133,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThreeFlagsRVResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (294,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThreeFlagsRVResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Toby's        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (3,808,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TobysMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,093,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TobysMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TobysMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,093,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TobysMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TobysMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,628,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TobysMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,338,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TobysMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2003      
Topics        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TopicsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TopicsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,568,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TopicsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TopicsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TopicsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TopicsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,096,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TopicsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Tropical Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsKissimmeeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,677,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsKissimmeeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 17,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsKissimmeeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,677,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsKissimmeeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 23,738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsKissimmeeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 29,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsKissimmeeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (9,929,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsKissimmeeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Tropical Palms II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,782,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsPuntaGordaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsPuntaGordaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsPuntaGordaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsPuntaGordaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,695,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsPuntaGordaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsPuntaGordaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,246,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsPuntaGordaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Vacation Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (4,999,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VacationVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,315,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VacationVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VacationVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,315,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VacationVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,386,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VacationVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,701,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VacationVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,538,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VacationVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Vero Palm        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (12,552,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VeroPalmMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 6,697,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VeroPalmMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 9,025,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VeroPalmMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 6,697,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VeroPalmMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 9,134,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VeroPalmMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 15,831,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VeroPalmMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,608,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VeroPalmMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Villas at Spanish Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (11,777,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillasAtSpanishOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillasAtSpanishOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,922,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillasAtSpanishOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillasAtSpanishOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillasAtSpanishOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillasAtSpanishOaksMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,701,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillasAtSpanishOaksMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1993      
Village Green        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (23,882,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageGreenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 15,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageGreenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 25,175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageGreenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 15,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageGreenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 25,582,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageGreenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 41,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageGreenMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,788,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageGreenMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Whispering Pines - Largo        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (12,119,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesLargoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 8,218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesLargoMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 14,054,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesLargoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 8,218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesLargoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 14,213,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesLargoMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 22,431,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesLargoMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,532,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesLargoMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Windmill Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (15,662,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillManorMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,153,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillManorMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,125,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,153,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,974,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillManorMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,190,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillManorMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Windmill Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (15,277,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,417,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,417,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,548,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,965,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,751,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Winds of St. Armands North        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (27,351,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsNorthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,523,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsNorthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,063,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsNorthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,523,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsNorthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsNorthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,873,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsNorthMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,715,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsNorthMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Winds of St. Armands South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (17,843,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsSouthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsSouthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,162,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,453,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsSouthMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,840,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsSouthMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Winter Garden        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WinterGardenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,321,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WinterGardenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,962,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WinterGardenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,321,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WinterGardenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,272,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WinterGardenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,593,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WinterGardenMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,871,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WinterGardenMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2007      
Pine Island Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineIslandResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineIslandResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,044,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineIslandResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineIslandResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,527,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineIslandResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,205,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineIslandResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,351,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineIslandResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2007      
Coach Royale        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachRoyaleMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 465,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachRoyaleMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachRoyaleMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 465,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachRoyaleMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,701,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachRoyaleMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,166,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachRoyaleMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (339,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachRoyaleMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Maple Grove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MapleGroveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,358,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MapleGroveMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MapleGroveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,358,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MapleGroveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,183,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MapleGroveMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,541,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MapleGroveMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,011,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MapleGroveMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Shenandoah Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (5,500,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShenandoahEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShenandoahEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShenandoahEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShenandoahEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,718,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShenandoahEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,005,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShenandoahEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,172,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShenandoahEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
West Meadow Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestMeadowEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,371,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestMeadowEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestMeadowEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,371,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestMeadowEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,784,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestMeadowEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,155,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestMeadowEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,145,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestMeadowEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Golf Vistas Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (11,784,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GolfVistasEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GolfVistasEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,719,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GolfVistasEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,843,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GolfVistasEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 11,432,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GolfVistasEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 14,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GolfVistasEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,938,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GolfVistasEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
O'Connell's        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OConnellsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OConnellsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,974,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OConnellsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OConnellsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,922,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OConnellsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OConnellsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,224,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OConnellsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Pheasant Lake Estates [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PheasantLakeEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 12,764,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PheasantLakeEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 42,183,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PheasantLakeEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 12,764,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PheasantLakeEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 42,220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PheasantLakeEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 54,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PheasantLakeEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,743,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PheasantLakeEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2013      
Pine Country        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineCountryMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 53,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineCountryMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 166,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineCountryMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 53,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineCountryMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineCountryMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 692,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineCountryMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (110,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineCountryMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Willow Lake Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WillowLakeEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 6,138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WillowLakeEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 21,033,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WillowLakeEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 6,138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WillowLakeEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 27,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WillowLakeEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 33,847,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WillowLakeEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (17,002,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WillowLakeEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Indian Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,061,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,194,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianLakesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (625,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianLakesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Hoosier Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,617,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HoosierEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HoosierEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HoosierEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HoosierEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HoosierEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HoosierEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,156,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HoosierEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Horseshoe Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HorseshoeLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 155,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HorseshoeLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HorseshoeLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HorseshoeLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HorseshoeLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 978,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HorseshoeLakeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (235,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HorseshoeLakeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Lakeside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 426,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 426,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,428,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,854,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (512,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
North Glen Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,885,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NorthGlenVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,308,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NorthGlenVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,333,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NorthGlenVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,308,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NorthGlenVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NorthGlenVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,743,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NorthGlenVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,145,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NorthGlenVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Oak Tree Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakTreeVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 569,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakTreeVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakTreeVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 569,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakTreeVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,967,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakTreeVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakTreeVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,029,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakTreeVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1987      
Twin Mills RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinMillsRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinMillsRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,186,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinMillsRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinMillsRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,473,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinMillsRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,872,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinMillsRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,224,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinMillsRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Diamond Caverns Resort & Golf Club        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DiamondCavernsResortGolfClubMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DiamondCavernsResortGolfClubMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DiamondCavernsResortGolfClubMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DiamondCavernsResortGolfClubMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DiamondCavernsResortGolfClubMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DiamondCavernsResortGolfClubMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (476,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DiamondCavernsResortGolfClubMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Gateway to Cape Cod        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GatewayToCapeCodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 91,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GatewayToCapeCodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 288,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GatewayToCapeCodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 91,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GatewayToCapeCodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GatewayToCapeCodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 611,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GatewayToCapeCodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (158,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GatewayToCapeCodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Hillcrest II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (1,863,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestRocklandMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestRocklandMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestRocklandMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestRocklandMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestRocklandMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,251,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestRocklandMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (590,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestRocklandMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Old Chatham RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OldChathamRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OldChathamRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OldChathamRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OldChathamRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,492,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OldChathamRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,252,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OldChathamRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,695,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OldChathamRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2005      
Sturbridge        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SturbridgeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SturbridgeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SturbridgeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SturbridgeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SturbridgeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 931,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SturbridgeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (182,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SturbridgeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
The Glen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (311,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Fernwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FernwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 6,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FernwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 11,674,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FernwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 6,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FernwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 11,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FernwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 18,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FernwoodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,071,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FernwoodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Williams Estates and Peppermint Woods        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (40,216,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsEstatesAndPeppermintWoodsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 22,774,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsEstatesAndPeppermintWoodsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 42,575,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsEstatesAndPeppermintWoodsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 22,774,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsEstatesAndPeppermintWoodsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 43,068,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsEstatesAndPeppermintWoodsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 65,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsEstatesAndPeppermintWoodsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (7,195,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsEstatesAndPeppermintWoodsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Moody Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MoodyBeachMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 93,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MoodyBeachMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MoodyBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 93,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MoodyBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MoodyBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 556,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MoodyBeachMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (133,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MoodyBeachMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Pinehirst RV Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (11,397,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PinehirstRVParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,942,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PinehirstRVParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,827,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PinehirstRVParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,942,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PinehirstRVParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,988,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PinehirstRVParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PinehirstRVParkMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,052,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PinehirstRVParkMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2005      
Mt. Desert Narrows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtDesertNarrowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,037,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtDesertNarrowsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtDesertNarrowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,037,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtDesertNarrowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,308,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtDesertNarrowsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtDesertNarrowsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (777,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtDesertNarrowsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2007      
Narrows Too        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NarrowsTooMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NarrowsTooMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,408,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NarrowsTooMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NarrowsTooMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,467,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NarrowsTooMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,918,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NarrowsTooMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,059,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NarrowsTooMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2007      
Patton Pond        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PattonPondMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 267,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PattonPondMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 802,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PattonPondMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 267,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PattonPondMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PattonPondMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,155,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PattonPondMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (222,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PattonPondMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2007      
Bear Cave Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCaveResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCaveResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 516,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCaveResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCaveResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCaveResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 843,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCaveResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (210,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCaveResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Lake in the Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (4,149,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeInHillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,792,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeInHillsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,599,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeInHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,792,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeInHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,671,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeInHillsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeInHillsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,180,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeInHillsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
St Clair        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StClairMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 453,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StClairMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,068,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StClairMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 459,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StClairMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,386,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StClairMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StClairMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (488,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StClairMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Swan Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (5,419,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SwanCreekMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SwanCreekMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SwanCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SwanCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,332,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SwanCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,176,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SwanCreekMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,509,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SwanCreekMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Cedar Knolls        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (16,170,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CedarKnollsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 10,021,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CedarKnollsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 14,357,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CedarKnollsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 10,021,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CedarKnollsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 14,447,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CedarKnollsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 24,468,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CedarKnollsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,875,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CedarKnollsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Cimarron Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (14,255,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 11,097,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 23,132,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 11,097,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 23,473,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 34,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronParkMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,312,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronParkMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Rockford Riverview Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RockfordRiverviewEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,959,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RockfordRiverviewEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 8,882,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RockfordRiverviewEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,959,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RockfordRiverviewEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,942,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RockfordRiverviewEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RockfordRiverviewEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,687,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RockfordRiverviewEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Rosemount Woods        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RosemountWoodsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RosemountWoodsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 8,932,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RosemountWoodsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RosemountWoodsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RosemountWoodsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 13,299,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RosemountWoodsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,551,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RosemountWoodsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Forest Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ForestLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 986,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ForestLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ForestLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 999,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ForestLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ForestLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,942,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ForestLakeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (974,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ForestLakeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Goose Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (16,648,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GooseCreekMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,612,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GooseCreekMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 13,848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GooseCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,362,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GooseCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 15,725,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GooseCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 21,087,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GooseCreekMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,541,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GooseCreekMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Green Mountain Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenMountainParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,037,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenMountainParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,075,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenMountainParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,037,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenMountainParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,554,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenMountainParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,591,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenMountainParkMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (962,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenMountainParkMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Lake Gaston        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGastonMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGastonMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 409,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGastonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGastonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 666,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGastonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 796,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGastonMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (182,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGastonMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Lake Myers RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMyersRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMyersRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMyersRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMyersRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,855,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMyersRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,359,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMyersRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,367,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMyersRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Scenic        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (3,420,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScenicMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,183,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScenicMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScenicMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,183,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScenicMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,661,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScenicMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,844,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScenicMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,055,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScenicMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Twin Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,361,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,923,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,632,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinLakesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,381,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinLakesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Waterway RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,009,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterwayRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,392,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterwayRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterwayRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,392,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterwayRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,932,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterwayRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterwayRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,707,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterwayRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Buena Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuenaVistaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,563,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuenaVistaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 14,949,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuenaVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,563,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuenaVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 15,242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuenaVistaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 19,805,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuenaVistaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,515,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuenaVistaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Meadow Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowParkMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,907,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,033,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowParkMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,976,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowParkMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (518,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowParkMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Pine Acres Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineAcresResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineAcresResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineAcresResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineAcresResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineAcresResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,198,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineAcresResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (33,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineAcresResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2014      
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineAcresResortMember
     
Sandy Beach RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (4,571,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SandyBeachRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,755,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SandyBeachRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SandyBeachRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,755,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SandyBeachRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SandyBeachRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,149,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SandyBeachRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,708,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SandyBeachRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2005      
Tuxbury Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TuxburyResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TuxburyResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TuxburyResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TuxburyResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,397,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TuxburyResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,954,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TuxburyResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,044,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TuxburyResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2007      
Chestnut Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChestnutLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 337,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChestnutLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 796,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChestnutLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChestnutLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChestnutLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChestnutLakeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (338,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChestnutLakeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Echo Farms Campground [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EchoFarmsCampgroundMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EchoFarmsCampgroundMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EchoFarmsCampgroundMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EchoFarmsCampgroundMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EchoFarmsCampgroundMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,885,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EchoFarmsCampgroundMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (36,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EchoFarmsCampgroundMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2014      
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EchoFarmsCampgroundMember
     
Lake & Shore        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeShoreMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 378,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeShoreMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeShoreMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 378,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeShoreMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,728,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeShoreMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeShoreMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (653,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeShoreMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Mays Landing Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaysLandingResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaysLandingResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 289,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaysLandingResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaysLandingResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 289,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaysLandingResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 825,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaysLandingResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaysLandingResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2014      
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaysLandingResortMember
     
Pine Ridge at Crestwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (36,444,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineRidgeAtCrestwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 17,367,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineRidgeAtCrestwoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 33,127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineRidgeAtCrestwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 17,367,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineRidgeAtCrestwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 33,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineRidgeAtCrestwoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 50,584,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineRidgeAtCrestwoodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,878,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineRidgeAtCrestwoodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Sea Pines        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaPinesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 198,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaPinesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaPinesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 198,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaPinesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,645,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaPinesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,843,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaPinesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (299,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaPinesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Bonanza        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (8,194,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BonanzaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BonanzaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BonanzaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BonanzaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,487,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BonanzaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BonanzaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,578,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BonanzaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1983      
Boulder Cascade        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (8,029,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BoulderCascadeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,995,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BoulderCascadeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 9,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BoulderCascadeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,995,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BoulderCascadeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 11,645,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BoulderCascadeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 14,640,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BoulderCascadeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,223,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BoulderCascadeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Cabana        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (8,912,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CabanaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CabanaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CabanaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CabanaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CabanaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 11,589,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CabanaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,857,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CabanaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Flamingo West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (13,234,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FlamingoWestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FlamingoWestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,266,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FlamingoWestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FlamingoWestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,005,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FlamingoWestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 8,735,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FlamingoWestMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,486,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FlamingoWestMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Las Vegas        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasVegasMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,049,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasVegasMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,473,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasVegasMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,063,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasVegasMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasVegasMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasVegasMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (953,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasVegasMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Villa Borega        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (9,373,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillaBoregaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,896,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillaBoregaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 8,774,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillaBoregaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,896,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillaBoregaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 9,964,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillaBoregaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 12,860,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillaBoregaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (5,651,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillaBoregaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Alpine Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (12,528,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlpineLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlpineLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 14,125,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlpineLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,936,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlpineLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 15,048,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlpineLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 19,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlpineLakeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,723,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlpineLakeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2005      
Brennan Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (18,519,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BrennanBeachMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 7,325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BrennanBeachMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 21,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BrennanBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 7,325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BrennanBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 26,465,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BrennanBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 33,790,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BrennanBeachMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (7,653,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BrennanBeachMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2005      
Greenwood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (23,586,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenwoodVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenwoodVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 9,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenwoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenwoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 14,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenwoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 18,881,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenwoodVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (7,412,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenwoodVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Lake George Escape        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeEscapeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeEscapeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 10,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeEscapeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeEscapeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 11,954,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeEscapeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 15,516,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeEscapeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,762,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeEscapeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2005      
Lake George Schroon Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeSchroonValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeSchroonValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,626,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeSchroonValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeSchroonValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,674,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeSchroonValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,214,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeSchroonValleyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (385,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeSchroonValleyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2008      
Mountain View - NV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (20,453,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewNVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 16,665,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewNVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 25,915,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewNVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 16,665,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewNVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 26,162,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewNVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 42,827,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewNVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,269,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewNVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Rondout Valley Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RondoutValleyResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,115,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RondoutValleyResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RondoutValleyResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,115,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RondoutValleyResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RondoutValleyResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RondoutValleyResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,046,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RondoutValleyResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
The Woodlands        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 12,183,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 39,687,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 12,183,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 39,983,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 52,166,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,799,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Kenisee Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KeniseeLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 295,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KeniseeLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 696,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KeniseeLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 299,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KeniseeLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 885,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KeniseeLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,184,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KeniseeLakeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (276,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KeniseeLakeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Wilmington        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilmingtonMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 235,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilmingtonMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 555,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilmingtonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 238,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilmingtonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilmingtonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 994,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilmingtonMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (232,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilmingtonMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Bend        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BendMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BendMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,729,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BendMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 743,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BendMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BendMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BendMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (749,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BendMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Falcon Wood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FalconWoodVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FalconWoodVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,426,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FalconWoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FalconWoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,037,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FalconWoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,149,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FalconWoodVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,251,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FalconWoodVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Mt. Hood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtHoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,817,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtHoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtHoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,817,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtHoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,032,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtHoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtHoodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,665,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtHoodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Pacific City        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificCityMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,076,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificCityMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificCityMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificCityMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,891,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificCityMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,981,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificCityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,253,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificCityMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Quail Hollow        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailHollowMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailHollowMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,249,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailHollowMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailHollowMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,811,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailHollowMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,811,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailHollowMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,134,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailHollowMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Seaside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeasideMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 891,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeasideMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,101,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeasideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 903,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeasideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeasideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,712,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeasideMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (892,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeasideMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Shadowbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadowbrookMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadowbrookMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,693,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadowbrookMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadowbrookMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadowbrookMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadowbrookMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,415,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadowbrookMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
South Jetty        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthJettyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthJettyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,598,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthJettyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 687,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthJettyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthJettyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthJettyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (623,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthJettyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Whalers Rest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhalersRestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 754,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhalersRestMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,777,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhalersRestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 764,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhalersRestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,396,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhalersRestMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhalersRestMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (753,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhalersRestMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Appalachian        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AppalachianMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,666,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AppalachianMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,044,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AppalachianMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,666,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AppalachianMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,517,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AppalachianMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,183,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AppalachianMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,484,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AppalachianMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Circle M        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CircleMMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CircleMMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,041,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CircleMMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CircleMMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CircleMMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,827,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CircleMMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (407,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CircleMMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Dutch County        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DutchCountyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 88,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DutchCountyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DutchCountyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 88,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DutchCountyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DutchCountyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 489,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DutchCountyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (112,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DutchCountyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Gettysburg Farm        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GettysburgFarmMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 111,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GettysburgFarmMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GettysburgFarmMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 111,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GettysburgFarmMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 479,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GettysburgFarmMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GettysburgFarmMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (138,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GettysburgFarmMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Green Acres        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (27,272,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenAcresMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenAcresMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,479,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenAcresMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenAcresMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 11,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenAcresMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 14,586,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenAcresMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (8,937,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenAcresMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1988      
Greenbriar Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (13,395,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenbriarVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 8,359,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenbriarVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 16,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenbriarVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 8,359,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenbriarVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 16,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenbriarVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 25,332,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenbriarVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,775,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenbriarVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Hershey        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HersheyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,284,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HersheyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,028,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HersheyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,301,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HersheyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,155,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HersheyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,456,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HersheyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,318,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HersheyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Lil Wolf        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LilWolfMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LilWolfMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 13,593,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LilWolfMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LilWolfMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 14,204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LilWolfMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 19,831,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LilWolfMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,248,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LilWolfMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Mountain View - PA        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,755,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewPaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewPaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewPaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewPaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewPaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewPaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,228,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewPaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Robin Hill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RobinHillMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RobinHillMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,786,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RobinHillMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RobinHillMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RobinHillMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,223,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RobinHillMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (792,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RobinHillMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2009      
Scotrun        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScotrunMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 153,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScotrunMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScotrunMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 153,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScotrunMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 687,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScotrunMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 840,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScotrunMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (190,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScotrunMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Spring Gulch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpringGulchMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,593,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpringGulchMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,795,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpringGulchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,593,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpringGulchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpringGulchMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpringGulchMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,887,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpringGulchMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Sun Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 866,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunValleyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,601,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 866,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,814,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunValleyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunValleyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (561,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunValleyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2009      
Timothy Lake North        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeNorthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeNorthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 933,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeNorthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeNorthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeNorthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,626,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeNorthMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (358,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeNorthMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Timothy Lake South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeSouthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeSouthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 649,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 698,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 904,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeSouthMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (193,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeSouthMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Carolina Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarolinaLandingMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarolinaLandingMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,078,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarolinaLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarolinaLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarolinaLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarolinaLandingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (433,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarolinaLandingMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Inlet Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (4,409,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_InletOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_InletOaksMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,642,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_InletOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_InletOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_InletOaksMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,387,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_InletOaksMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,398,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_InletOaksMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
The Oaks at Point South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtPointSouthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 267,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtPointSouthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtPointSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 267,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtPointSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 867,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtPointSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,134,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtPointSouthMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (261,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtPointSouthMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Natchez Trace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NatchezTraceMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 533,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NatchezTraceMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NatchezTraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NatchezTraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,765,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NatchezTraceMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,305,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NatchezTraceMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (549,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NatchezTraceMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Cherokee Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CherokeeLandingMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CherokeeLandingMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 279,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CherokeeLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CherokeeLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 344,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CherokeeLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 464,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CherokeeLandingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (114,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CherokeeLandingMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Bay Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLandingMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLandingMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,033,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 444,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLandingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (442,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLandingMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Colorado River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColoradoRiverMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 466,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColoradoRiverMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColoradoRiverMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 472,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColoradoRiverMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColoradoRiverMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,759,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColoradoRiverMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (425,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColoradoRiverMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Country Sunshine        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrySunshineMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrySunshineMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,881,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrySunshineMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrySunshineMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,782,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrySunshineMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,409,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrySunshineMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,051,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrySunshineMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Fun n Sun RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,473,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FunNSunRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,533,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FunNSunRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 5,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FunNSunRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,945,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FunNSunRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 11,735,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FunNSunRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 14,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FunNSunRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (6,336,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FunNSunRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1998      
Lake Conroe        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeConroeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,363,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeConroeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeConroeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,381,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeConroeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,817,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeConroeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,198,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeConroeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,594,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeConroeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Lake Tawakoni        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTawakoniMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTawakoniMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTawakoniMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTawakoniMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,621,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTawakoniMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,656,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTawakoniMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (856,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTawakoniMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Lake Texoma        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTexomaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 488,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTexomaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTexomaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTexomaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTexomaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,659,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTexomaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (618,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTexomaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Lake Whitney        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWhitneyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 679,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWhitneyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWhitneyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 689,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWhitneyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,311,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWhitneyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWhitneyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (706,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWhitneyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Lakewood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 979,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,189,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (466,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Medina Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MedinaLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 936,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MedinaLakeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MedinaLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 948,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MedinaLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,148,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MedinaLakeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MedinaLakeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,048,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MedinaLakeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Paradise Park RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseParkRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,568,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseParkRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,705,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseParkRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,568,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseParkRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,521,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseParkRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseParkRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,978,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseParkRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Paradise South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseSouthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseSouthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseSouthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,158,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseSouthMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (594,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseSouthMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Southern Comfort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernComfortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,108,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernComfortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,323,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernComfortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,108,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernComfortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernComfortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,798,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernComfortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,371,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernComfortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Sunshine RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineRVMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 5,601,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineRVMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,095,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineRVMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (2,012,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineRVMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Tropic Winds        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicWindsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicWindsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 3,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicWindsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicWindsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,392,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicWindsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicWindsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,830,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicWindsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Victoria Palms [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (11,164,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VictoriaPalmsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VictoriaPalmsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 12,305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VictoriaPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VictoriaPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 12,621,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VictoriaPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 15,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VictoriaPalmsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,482,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VictoriaPalmsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2012      
All Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (3,111,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AllSeasonsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AllSeasonsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,623,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AllSeasonsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AllSeasonsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,137,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AllSeasonsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,647,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AllSeasonsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,199,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AllSeasonsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
St. George        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StGeorgeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 64,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StGeorgeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 264,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StGeorgeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 66,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StGeorgeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StGeorgeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 602,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StGeorgeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (84,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StGeorgeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2010      
Westwood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (10,013,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,346,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodVillageMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,346,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 6,339,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodVillageMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 7,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodVillageMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,417,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodVillageMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
Chesapeake Bay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChesapeakeBayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChesapeakeBayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChesapeakeBayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChesapeakeBayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChesapeakeBayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChesapeakeBayMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,347,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChesapeakeBayMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Harbor View II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewIIMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 64,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewIIMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 202,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 64,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 641,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 705,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewIIMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (151,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewIIMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Lynchburg        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LynchburgMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 266,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LynchburgMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LynchburgMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LynchburgMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 839,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LynchburgMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,109,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LynchburgMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (274,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LynchburgMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Meadows of Chantilly        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (45,194,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsOfChantillyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsOfChantillyMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 16,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsOfChantillyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsOfChantillyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 23,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsOfChantillyMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 29,139,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsOfChantillyMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (14,346,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsOfChantillyMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1994      
Regency Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (9,722,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RegencyLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 9,757,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RegencyLakesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 19,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RegencyLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 9,757,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RegencyLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 19,135,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RegencyLakesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 28,892,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RegencyLakesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (3,322,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RegencyLakesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2011      
Virginia Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VirginiaLandingMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VirginiaLandingMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,419,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VirginiaLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VirginiaLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VirginiaLandingMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VirginiaLandingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (568,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VirginiaLandingMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Williamsburg        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsburgMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 111,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsburgMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsburgMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 111,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsburgMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 488,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsburgMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 599,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsburgMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (125,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsburgMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Birch Bay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BirchBayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 502,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BirchBayMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BirchBayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 509,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BirchBayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BirchBayMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,802,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BirchBayMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (437,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BirchBayMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Chehalis        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChehalisMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChehalisMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,392,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChehalisMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 598,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChehalisMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChehalisMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,805,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChehalisMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (706,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChehalisMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Crescent Bar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrescentBarMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrescentBarMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrescentBarMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrescentBarMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,046,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrescentBarMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,364,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrescentBarMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (346,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrescentBarMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Grandy Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandyCreekMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 475,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandyCreekMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,425,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandyCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 475,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandyCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandyCreekMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandyCreekMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (385,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandyCreekMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2008      
Kloshe Illahee        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (16,166,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KlosheIllaheeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,408,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KlosheIllaheeMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KlosheIllaheeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,408,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KlosheIllaheeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 8,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KlosheIllaheeMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 10,412,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KlosheIllaheeMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (4,562,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KlosheIllaheeMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1997      
La Conner        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LaConnerMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LaConnerMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,016,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LaConnerMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LaConnerMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LaConnerMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LaConnerMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,022,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LaConnerMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Leavenworth        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LeavenworthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 786,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LeavenworthMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,853,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LeavenworthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 796,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LeavenworthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LeavenworthMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LeavenworthMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (777,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LeavenworthMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Little Diamond        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LittleDiamondMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 353,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LittleDiamondMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 834,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LittleDiamondMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 358,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LittleDiamondMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LittleDiamondMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,814,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LittleDiamondMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (397,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LittleDiamondMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Long Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LongBeachMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 321,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LongBeachMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 758,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LongBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LongBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,128,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LongBeachMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,453,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LongBeachMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (310,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LongBeachMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Mount Vernon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountVernonMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 621,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountVernonMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,464,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountVernonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 629,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountVernonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,131,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountVernonMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountVernonMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (681,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountVernonMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Oceana        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OceanaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OceanaMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 668,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OceanaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OceanaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OceanaMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,047,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OceanaMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (246,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OceanaMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Paradise II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseIIMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 466,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseIIMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 473,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,444,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseIIMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,917,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseIIMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (455,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseIIMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Tall Chief        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TallChiefMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TallChiefMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TallChiefMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TallChiefMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TallChiefMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,544,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TallChiefMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (228,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TallChiefMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2010      
Thunderbird        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThunderbirdMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThunderbirdMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThunderbirdMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThunderbirdMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,407,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThunderbirdMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 1,915,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThunderbirdMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (468,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThunderbirdMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Arrowhead        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArrowheadMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 522,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArrowheadMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,616,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArrowheadMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 522,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArrowheadMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,033,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArrowheadMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,555,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArrowheadMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (565,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArrowheadMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Blackhawk RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (5,025,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BlackhawkRVResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BlackhawkRVResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BlackhawkRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BlackhawkRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BlackhawkRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BlackhawkRVResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (529,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BlackhawkRVResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2014      
Fremont        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FremontMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FremontMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FremontMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FremontMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,978,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FremontMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 6,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FremontMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,674,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FremontMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Lakeland RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (8,796,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandRVResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 3,159,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandRVResortMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 13,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 3,159,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 13,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandRVResortMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 16,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandRVResortMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (876,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandRVResortMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2014      
Rainbow Lake Manor [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RainbowLakeManorMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 4,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RainbowLakeManorMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 16,594,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RainbowLakeManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 4,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RainbowLakeManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 16,671,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RainbowLakeManorMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 21,145,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RainbowLakeManorMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,553,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RainbowLakeManorMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2013      
Neshonoc Lakeside [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (5,604,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NeshonocLakesideMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,105,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NeshonocLakesideMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 4,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NeshonocLakesideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,105,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NeshonocLakesideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 4,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NeshonocLakesideMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 5,966,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NeshonocLakesideMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (290,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NeshonocLakesideMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2013      
Plymouth Rock        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,764,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PlymouthRockMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 2,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PlymouthRockMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 6,879,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PlymouthRockMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 2,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PlymouthRockMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PlymouthRockMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,629,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PlymouthRockMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,430,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PlymouthRockMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2009      
Tranquil Timbers        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TranquilTimbersMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 714,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TranquilTimbersMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,152,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TranquilTimbersMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 714,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TranquilTimbersMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 2,577,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TranquilTimbersMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 3,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TranquilTimbersMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (723,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TranquilTimbersMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2006      
Westwood Estates [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 5,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodEstatesMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 19,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 5,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 19,832,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodEstatesMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 25,214,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodEstatesMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,933,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodEstatesMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2013      
Yukon Trails        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YukonTrailsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YukonTrailsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 1,629,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YukonTrailsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YukonTrailsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 1,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YukonTrailsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 2,377,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YukonTrailsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (623,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YukonTrailsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2004      
Realty Systems, Inc.        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RealtySystemsIncMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RealtySystemsIncMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RealtySystemsIncMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RealtySystemsIncMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 206,747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RealtySystemsIncMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 206,747,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RealtySystemsIncMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (36,034,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RealtySystemsIncMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2002      
Alamo Palms [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (6,599,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlamoPalmsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlamoPalmsMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 7,924,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlamoPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlamoPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 7,987,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlamoPalmsMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 9,549,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlamoPalmsMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (888,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlamoPalmsMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 2012      
Subtotal of Properties Held for Long Term [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances (2,012,246,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SubtotalOfPropertiesHeldForLongTermMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 1,050,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SubtotalOfPropertiesHeldForLongTermMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 2,595,913,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SubtotalOfPropertiesHeldForLongTermMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 1,091,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SubtotalOfPropertiesHeldForLongTermMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 3,068,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SubtotalOfPropertiesHeldForLongTermMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 4,159,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SubtotalOfPropertiesHeldForLongTermMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (1,118,072,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SubtotalOfPropertiesHeldForLongTermMember
     
Management Business and Other [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManagementBusinessAndOtherMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManagementBusinessAndOtherMember
     
Initial Cost to Company Depreciable Property 436,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManagementBusinessAndOtherMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManagementBusinessAndOtherMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Depreciable Property 21,297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManagementBusinessAndOtherMember
     
Gross Amount Carried at Close of Period, Total 21,297,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManagementBusinessAndOtherMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation (15,386,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManagementBusinessAndOtherMember
     
Date of Acquisition Jan. 01, 1990      
Depreciable Property        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 700,014,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Hillcrest [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestMember
     
Depreciable Property | Hidden Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 42,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenCoveMember
     
Depreciable Property | Apache East        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 19,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApacheEastMember
     
Depreciable Property | Apollo Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApolloVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Araby        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 788,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArabyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Cactus Gardens        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 368,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CactusGardensMember
     
Depreciable Property | Capri RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CapriRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Carefree Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 843,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeManorMember
     
Depreciable Property | Casa del Sol East II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,812,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIMember
     
Depreciable Property | Casa del Sol East III        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 754,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIIMember
     
Depreciable Property | Casa del Sol West I        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolWestIMember
     
Depreciable Property | Casita Verde RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 99,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasitaVerdeRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Central Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,616,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CentralParkMember
     
Depreciable Property | Countryside RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,376,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Denali Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 68,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DenaliParkMember
     
Depreciable Property | Desert Paradise        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertParadiseMember
     
Depreciable Property | Desert Skies        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 717,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertSkiesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Desert Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertVistaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Fairview Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,092,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FairviewManorMember
     
Depreciable Property | Fiesta Grande RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaGrandeRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Foothill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Foothills West RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsWestRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Golden Sun RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 409,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenSunRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Hacienda De Valencia        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,701,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaDeValenciaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Mesa Spirit [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaSpiritMember
     
Depreciable Property | Mesa Verde        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 465,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaVerdeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Monte Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,222,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteVistaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Palm Shadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmShadowsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Paradise [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sedona Shadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,406,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SedonaShadowsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Seyenna Vistas [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeyennaVistasMember
     
Depreciable Property | Suni Sands        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 378,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SuniSandsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sunrise Heights        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunriseHeightsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sunshine Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineValleyMember
     
Depreciable Property | The Highlands at Brentwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandsAtBrentwoodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Meadows [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Valley Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 42,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ValleyVistaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Venture In        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 404,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VentureInMember
     
Depreciable Property | Verde Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VerdeValleyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Viewpoint        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 7,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ViewpointMember
     
Depreciable Property | Westpark        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestparkMember
     
Depreciable Property | Whispering Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 333,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPalmsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Cultus Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 224,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CultusLakeMember
     
Depreciable Property | California Hawaiian [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CaliforniaHawaiianMember
     
Depreciable Property | Colony Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 857,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyParkMember
     
Depreciable Property | Concord Cascade        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ConcordCascadeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Contempo Marin        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,355,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ContempoMarinMember
     
Depreciable Property | Coralwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 605,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralwoodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Date Palm Country Club        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmCountryClubMember
     
Depreciable Property | Date Palm RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 354,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | DeAnza Santa Cruz        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,912,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DeAnzaSantaCruzMember
     
Depreciable Property | Four Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FourSeasonsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Idyllwild        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 965,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IdyllwildMember
     
Depreciable Property | Laguna Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LagunaLakeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Minden        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 804,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMindenMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake of the Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeOfSpringsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lamplighter        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LamplighterMember
     
Depreciable Property | Las Palmas        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 624,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasPalmasMember
     
Depreciable Property | Los Ranchos        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LosRanchosMember
     
Depreciable Property | Meadowbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,059,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowbrookMember
     
Depreciable Property | Monte del Lago        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteDelLagoMember
     
Depreciable Property | Morgan Hill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 934,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MorganHillMember
     
Depreciable Property | Nicholson Plaza        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 288,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NicholsonPlazaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Oakzanita Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,031,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakzanitaSpringsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pacific Dunes Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificDunesRanchMember
     
Depreciable Property | Palm Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,473,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmSpringsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Parque La Quinta        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParqueLaQuintaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pio Pico        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioPicoMember
     
Depreciable Property | Ponderosa        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PonderosaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Quail Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 491,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailMeadowsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Rancho Mesa        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 836,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoMesaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Rancho Oso        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 871,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoOsoMember
     
Depreciable Property | Rancho Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,304,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoValleyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Royal Holiday        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,455,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalHolidayMember
     
Depreciable Property | Royal Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 811,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalOaksMember
     
Depreciable Property | Russian River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 172,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RussianRiverMember
     
Depreciable Property | San Benito        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanBenitoMember
     
Depreciable Property | San Francisco RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 841,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanFranciscoRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Santa Cruz Ranch RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantaCruzRanchRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Santiago Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantiagoEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sea Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 585,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaOaksMember
     
Depreciable Property | Snowflower        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 777,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SnowflowerMember
     
Depreciable Property | Soledad Canyon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SoledadCanyonMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sunshadow        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshadowMember
     
Depreciable Property | Tahoe Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 428,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TahoeValleyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Turtle Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 236,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TurtleBeachMember
     
Depreciable Property | Village of the Four Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageOfFourSeasonsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Westwinds (4 properties)        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 8,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_Westwinds4PropertiesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Wilderness Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WildernessLakeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Yosemite Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YosemiteLakesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Bear Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCreekMember
     
Depreciable Property | Cimarron        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,124,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronMember
     
Depreciable Property | Golden Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceMember
     
Depreciable Property | Golden Terrace South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 827,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceSouthMember
     
Depreciable Property | Golden Terrace West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,139,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceWestMember
     
Depreciable Property | Hillcrest Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,553,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Holiday Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,406,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayHillsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Holiday Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,406,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Holiday Village I I I [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageOrmandMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pueblo Grande        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PuebloGrandeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Woodland Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,972,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandHillsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Stonegate Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StonegateManorMember
     
Depreciable Property | Aspen Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 565,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AspenMeadowsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Camelot Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,417,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CamelotMeadowsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Mariners Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MarinersCoveMember
     
Depreciable Property | McNicol        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_McNicolMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sweetbriar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 473,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SweetbriarMember
     
Depreciable Property | Waterford        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterfordMember
     
Depreciable Property | Whispering Pines        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,592,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Audubon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 96,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AudubonMember
     
Depreciable Property | Barrington Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BarringtonHillsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Bay Indies        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,083,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayIndiesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Bay Lake Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLakeEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Beacon Hill Colony        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 43,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconHillColonyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Beacon Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 119,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconTerraceMember
     
Depreciable Property | Breezy Hill RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,717,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BreezyHillRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Buccaneer        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,972,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuccaneerMember
     
Depreciable Property | Bulow Village RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowVillageRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Bulow Plantation        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,371,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowPlantationMember
     
Depreciable Property | Carefree Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 579,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeCoveMember
     
Depreciable Property | Carefree Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Carriage Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,349,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarriageCoveMember
     
Depreciable Property | Cheron Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 44,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CheronVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Clerbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,331,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ClerbrookMember
     
Depreciable Property | Clover Leaf Farms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 413,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafFarmsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Clover Leaf Forest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 147,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafForestMember
     
Depreciable Property | Coachwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 359,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachwoodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Colony Cove [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyCoveMember
     
Depreciable Property | Coquina Crossing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 17,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoquinaCrossingMember
     
Depreciable Property | Coral Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 7,820,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralCayMember
     
Depreciable Property | Country Place        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 7,638,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountryPlaceMember
     
Depreciable Property | Countryside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideMember
     
Depreciable Property | Covington Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 78,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CovingtonEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Crystal Isles        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalIslesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Crystal Lakes-Zephyrhills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 121,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalLakesZephyrhillsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Down Yonder        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 876,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DownYonderMember
     
Depreciable Property | East Bay Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EastBayOaksMember
     
Depreciable Property | Eldorado Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,054,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EldoradoVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Emerald Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 223,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EmeraldLakeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Featherock        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FeatherockMember
     
Depreciable Property | Fiesta Key [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,075,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaKeyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Fort Myers Beach Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 316,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FortMyersBeachResortMember
     
Depreciable Property | Foxwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 171,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoxwoodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Glen Ellen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenEllenMember
     
Depreciable Property | Grand Island        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,295,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandIslandMember
     
Depreciable Property | Gulf Air Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 346,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfAirResortMember
     
Depreciable Property | Gulf View        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfViewMember
     
Depreciable Property | Hacienda Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,429,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Harbor Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 686,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborLakesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Harbor View [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewMember
     
Depreciable Property | Haselton Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaseltonVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Heritage Plantation        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritagePlantationMember
     
Depreciable Property | Heron Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 358,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeronCayMember
     
Depreciable Property | Hidden Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenValleyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Highland Wood RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 279,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandWoodRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Holiday Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayRanchMember
     
Depreciable Property | Holiday Village II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageVeroMember
     
Depreciable Property | Indian Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 973,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianOaksMember
     
Depreciable Property | Island Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 601,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IslandVistaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Kings & Queens        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 44,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KingsQueensMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Fairways        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,379,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeFairwaysMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Haven        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,304,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeHavenMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Magic        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 659,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMagicMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Worth Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 629,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWorthVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lakeland Harbor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 107,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandHarborMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lakeland Junction        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandJunctionMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lakes at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,798,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesAtCountrywoodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lakeside Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideTerraceMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lakewood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lighthouse Pointe        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,385,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LighthousePointeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Manatee        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManateeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Maralago Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaralagoCayMember
     
Depreciable Property | Meadows at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,591,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsAtCountrywoodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Mid-Florida Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 9,865,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MidFloridaLakesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Orange Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrangeLakeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Oak Bend        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,361,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakBendMember
     
Depreciable Property | Oaks at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtCountrywoodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Orlando        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrlandoMember
     
Depreciable Property | Palm Beach Colony        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmBeachColonyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Park City West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 833,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkCityWestMember
     
Depreciable Property | Parkwood Communities        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 233,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkwoodCommunitiesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pasco        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 634,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PascoMember
     
Depreciable Property | Peace River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PeaceRiverMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pickwick        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,285,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PickwickMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pine Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 7,358,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineLakesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pioneer Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,721,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioneerVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Ramblers Rest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RamblersRestMember
     
Depreciable Property | Ridgewood Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 126,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RidgewoodEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Royal Coachman        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalCoachmanMember
     
Depreciable Property | Shady Lane Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 104,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneOaksMember
     
Depreciable Property | Shady Lane Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 27,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Shangri La        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShangriLaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sherwood Forest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,173,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sherwood Forest RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,071,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Silk Oak        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilkOakMember
     
Depreciable Property | Silver Dollar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilverDollarMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sixth Ave.        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 61,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SixthAveMember
     
Depreciable Property | Southern Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernPalmsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Southernaire [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 123,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernaireMember
     
Depreciable Property | Space Coast RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpaceCoastRVResortMember
     
Depreciable Property | Starlight Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 488,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StarlightRanchMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sunshine Holiday MH        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 757,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayMHMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sunshine Holiday RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sunshine Key        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineKeyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sunshine Travel        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineTravelMember
     
Depreciable Property | Tarpon Glen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TarponGlenMember
     
Depreciable Property | Terra Ceia        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 272,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TerraCeiaMember
     
Depreciable Property | The Heritage        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritageMember
     
Depreciable Property | The Meadows II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsIiMember
     
Depreciable Property | Three Flags RV Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThreeFlagsRVResortMember
     
Depreciable Property | Toby's        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TobysMember
     
Depreciable Property | Topics        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TopicsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Tropical Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,622,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsKissimmeeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Tropical Palms II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,409,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsPuntaGordaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Vacation Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VacationVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Vero Palm        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 109,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VeroPalmMember
     
Depreciable Property | Villas at Spanish Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,628,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillasAtSpanishOaksMember
     
Depreciable Property | Village Green        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 407,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageGreenMember
     
Depreciable Property | Whispering Pines - Largo        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 159,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesLargoMember
     
Depreciable Property | Windmill Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillManorMember
     
Depreciable Property | Windmill Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,108,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Winds of St. Armands North        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsNorthMember
     
Depreciable Property | Winds of St. Armands South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsSouthMember
     
Depreciable Property | Winter Garden        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WinterGardenMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pine Island Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineIslandResortMember
     
Depreciable Property | Coach Royale        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 16,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachRoyaleMember
     
Depreciable Property | Maple Grove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 32,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MapleGroveMember
     
Depreciable Property | Shenandoah Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 115,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShenandoahEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | West Meadow Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 14,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestMeadowEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Golf Vistas Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,713,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GolfVistasEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | O'Connell's        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 948,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OConnellsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pheasant Lake Estates [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 37,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PheasantLakeEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pine Country        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 473,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineCountryMember
     
Depreciable Property | Willow Lake Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,676,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WillowLakeEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Indian Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianLakesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Hoosier Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 50,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HoosierEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Horseshoe Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HorseshoeLakeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lakeside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 147,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideMember
     
Depreciable Property | North Glen Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NorthGlenVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Oak Tree Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,967,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakTreeVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Twin Mills RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinMillsRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Diamond Caverns Resort & Golf Club        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 58,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DiamondCavernsResortGolfClubMember
     
Depreciable Property | Gateway to Cape Cod        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 232,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GatewayToCapeCodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Hillcrest II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestRocklandMember
     
Depreciable Property | Old Chatham RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OldChathamRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sturbridge        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 474,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SturbridgeMember
     
Depreciable Property | The Glen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenMember
     
Depreciable Property | Fernwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FernwoodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Williams Estates and Peppermint Woods        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsEstatesAndPeppermintWoodsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Moody Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 171,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MoodyBeachMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pinehirst RV Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,161,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PinehirstRVParkMember
     
Depreciable Property | Mt. Desert Narrows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtDesertNarrowsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Narrows Too        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 59,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NarrowsTooMember
     
Depreciable Property | Patton Pond        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 86,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PattonPondMember
     
Depreciable Property | Bear Cave Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCaveResortMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake in the Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 72,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeInHillsMember
     
Depreciable Property | St Clair        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StClairMember
     
Depreciable Property | Swan Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 152,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SwanCreekMember
     
Depreciable Property | Cedar Knolls        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 90,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CedarKnollsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Cimarron Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronParkMember
     
Depreciable Property | Rockford Riverview Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 60,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RockfordRiverviewEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Rosemount Woods        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 53,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RosemountWoodsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Forest Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ForestLakeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Goose Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GooseCreekMember
     
Depreciable Property | Green Mountain Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 479,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenMountainParkMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Gaston        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGastonMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Myers RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMyersRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Scenic        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScenicMember
     
Depreciable Property | Twin Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinLakesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Waterway RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterwayRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Buena Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuenaVistaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Meadow Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 126,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowParkMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sandy Beach RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SandyBeachRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Tuxbury Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 487,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TuxburyResortMember
     
Depreciable Property | Chestnut Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 419,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChestnutLakeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake & Shore        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeShoreMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pine Ridge at Crestwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 90,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineRidgeAtCrestwoodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sea Pines        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaPinesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Bonanza        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BonanzaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Boulder Cascade        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BoulderCascadeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Cabana        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 952,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CabanaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Flamingo West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FlamingoWestMember
     
Depreciable Property | Las Vegas        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 629,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasVegasMember
     
Depreciable Property | Villa Borega        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillaBoregaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Alpine Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 923,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlpineLakeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Brennan Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BrennanBeachMember
     
Depreciable Property | Greenwood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,316,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenwoodVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake George Escape        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeEscapeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake George Schroon Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 48,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeSchroonValleyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Mountain View - NV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewNVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Rondout Valley Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 635,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RondoutValleyResortMember
     
Depreciable Property | The Woodlands        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Kenisee Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 189,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KeniseeLakeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Wilmington        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilmingtonMember
     
Depreciable Property | Bend        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 578,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BendMember
     
Depreciable Property | Falcon Wood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 611,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FalconWoodVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Mt. Hood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 299,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtHoodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Pacific City        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificCityMember
     
Depreciable Property | Quail Hollow        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailHollowMember
     
Depreciable Property | Seaside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeasideMember
     
Depreciable Property | Shadowbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 524,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadowbrookMember
     
Depreciable Property | South Jetty        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 442,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthJettyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Whalers Rest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 619,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhalersRestMember
     
Depreciable Property | Appalachian        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 473,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AppalachianMember
     
Depreciable Property | Circle M        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CircleMMember
     
Depreciable Property | Dutch County        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 123,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DutchCountyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Gettysburg Farm        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GettysburgFarmMember
     
Depreciable Property | Green Acres        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,427,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenAcresMember
     
Depreciable Property | Greenbriar Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 32,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenbriarVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Hershey        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HersheyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lil Wolf        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 611,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LilWolfMember
     
Depreciable Property | Mountain View - PA        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewPaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Robin Hill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 174,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RobinHillMember
     
Depreciable Property | Scotrun        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScotrunMember
     
Depreciable Property | Spring Gulch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 392,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpringGulchMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sun Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 213,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunValleyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Timothy Lake North        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 397,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeNorthMember
     
Depreciable Property | Timothy Lake South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 49,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeSouthMember
     
Depreciable Property | Carolina Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarolinaLandingMember
     
Depreciable Property | Inlet Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_InletOaksMember
     
Depreciable Property | The Oaks at Point South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtPointSouthMember
     
Depreciable Property | Natchez Trace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NatchezTraceMember
     
Depreciable Property | Cherokee Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 65,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CherokeeLandingMember
     
Depreciable Property | Bay Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLandingMember
     
Depreciable Property | Colorado River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColoradoRiverMember
     
Depreciable Property | Country Sunshine        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrySunshineMember
     
Depreciable Property | Fun n Sun RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FunNSunRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Conroe        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeConroeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Tawakoni        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 301,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTawakoniMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Texoma        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,014,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTexomaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lake Whitney        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWhitneyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lakewood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodMember
     
Depreciable Property | Medina Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MedinaLakeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Paradise Park RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 816,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseParkRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Paradise South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseSouthMember
     
Depreciable Property | Southern Comfort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 367,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernComfortMember
     
Depreciable Property | Sunshine RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineRVMember
     
Depreciable Property | Tropic Winds        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 583,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicWindsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Victoria Palms [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 316,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VictoriaPalmsMember
     
Depreciable Property | All Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AllSeasonsMember
     
Depreciable Property | St. George        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 272,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StGeorgeMember
     
Depreciable Property | Westwood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodVillageMember
     
Depreciable Property | Chesapeake Bay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChesapeakeBayMember
     
Depreciable Property | Harbor View II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 439,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewIIMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lynchburg        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LynchburgMember
     
Depreciable Property | Meadows of Chantilly        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 7,269,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsOfChantillyMember
     
Depreciable Property | Regency Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RegencyLakesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Virginia Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 211,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VirginiaLandingMember
     
Depreciable Property | Williamsburg        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsburgMember
     
Depreciable Property | Birch Bay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 108,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BirchBayMember
     
Depreciable Property | Chehalis        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 815,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChehalisMember
     
Depreciable Property | Crescent Bar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrescentBarMember
     
Depreciable Property | Grandy Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandyCreekMember
     
Depreciable Property | Kloshe Illahee        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 718,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KlosheIllaheeMember
     
Depreciable Property | La Conner        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 834,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LaConnerMember
     
Depreciable Property | Leavenworth        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 561,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LeavenworthMember
     
Depreciable Property | Little Diamond        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 622,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LittleDiamondMember
     
Depreciable Property | Long Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LongBeachMember
     
Depreciable Property | Mount Vernon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountVernonMember
     
Depreciable Property | Oceana        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 92,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OceanaMember
     
Depreciable Property | Paradise II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseIIMember
     
Depreciable Property | Tall Chief        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 284,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TallChiefMember
     
Depreciable Property | Thunderbird        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThunderbirdMember
     
Depreciable Property | Arrowhead        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 417,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArrowheadMember
     
Depreciable Property | Blackhawk RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BlackhawkRVResortMember
     
Depreciable Property | Fremont        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 682,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FremontMember
     
Depreciable Property | Lakeland RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandRVResortMember
     
Depreciable Property | Rainbow Lake Manor [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 77,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RainbowLakeManorMember
     
Depreciable Property | Neshonoc Lakeside [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NeshonocLakesideMember
     
Depreciable Property | Plymouth Rock        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PlymouthRockMember
     
Depreciable Property | Tranquil Timbers        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 425,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TranquilTimbersMember
     
Depreciable Property | Westwood Estates [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodEstatesMember
     
Depreciable Property | Yukon Trails        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YukonTrailsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Realty Systems, Inc.        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 206,747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RealtySystemsIncMember
     
Depreciable Property | Alamo Palms [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 63,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlamoPalmsMember
     
Depreciable Property | Subtotal of Properties Held for Long Term [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 472,406,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SubtotalOfPropertiesHeldForLongTermMember
     
Depreciable Property | Management Business and Other [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 20,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManagementBusinessAndOtherMember
     
Land        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 41,199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
     
Land | Hillcrest [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestMember
     
Land | Hidden Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenCoveMember
     
Land | Apache East        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApacheEastMember
     
Land | Apollo Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ApolloVillageMember
     
Land | Araby        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArabyMember
     
Land | Cactus Gardens        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CactusGardensMember
     
Land | Capri RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CapriRVMember
     
Land | Carefree Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeManorMember
     
Land | Casa del Sol East II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIMember
     
Land | Casa del Sol East III        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolEastIIIMember
     
Land | Casa del Sol West I        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasaDelSolWestIMember
     
Land | Casita Verde RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CasitaVerdeRVMember
     
Land | Central Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CentralParkMember
     
Land | Countryside RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideRVMember
     
Land | Denali Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DenaliParkMember
     
Land | Desert Paradise        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertParadiseMember
     
Land | Desert Skies        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertSkiesMember
     
Land | Desert Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DesertVistaMember
     
Land | Fairview Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FairviewManorMember
     
Land | Fiesta Grande RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaGrandeRVMember
     
Land | Foothill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsMember
     
Land | Foothills West RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoothillsWestRVMember
     
Land | Golden Sun RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenSunRVMember
     
Land | Hacienda De Valencia        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaDeValenciaMember
     
Land | Mesa Spirit [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaSpiritMember
     
Land | Mesa Verde        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MesaVerdeMember
     
Land | Monte Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteVistaMember
     
Land | Palm Shadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmShadowsMember
     
Land | Paradise [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 11,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseMember
     
Land | Sedona Shadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SedonaShadowsMember
     
Land | Seyenna Vistas [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) (86,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeyennaVistasMember
     
Land | Suni Sands        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SuniSandsMember
     
Land | Sunrise Heights        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunriseHeightsMember
     
Land | Sunshine Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineValleyMember
     
Land | The Highlands at Brentwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandsAtBrentwoodMember
     
Land | Meadows [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsMember
     
Land | Valley Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ValleyVistaMember
     
Land | Venture In        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VentureInMember
     
Land | Verde Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 19,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VerdeValleyMember
     
Land | Viewpoint        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 15,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ViewpointMember
     
Land | Westpark        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestparkMember
     
Land | Whispering Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPalmsMember
     
Land | Cultus Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CultusLakeMember
     
Land | California Hawaiian [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CaliforniaHawaiianMember
     
Land | Colony Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyParkMember
     
Land | Concord Cascade        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ConcordCascadeMember
     
Land | Contempo Marin        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ContempoMarinMember
     
Land | Coralwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralwoodMember
     
Land | Date Palm Country Club        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmCountryClubMember
     
Land | Date Palm RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DatePalmRVMember
     
Land | DeAnza Santa Cruz        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DeAnzaSantaCruzMember
     
Land | Four Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FourSeasonsMember
     
Land | Idyllwild        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IdyllwildMember
     
Land | Laguna Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LagunaLakeMember
     
Land | Lake Minden        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 13,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMindenMember
     
Land | Lake of the Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 14,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeOfSpringsMember
     
Land | Lamplighter        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LamplighterMember
     
Land | Las Palmas        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasPalmasMember
     
Land | Los Ranchos        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LosRanchosMember
     
Land | Meadowbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowbrookMember
     
Land | Monte del Lago        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MonteDelLagoMember
     
Land | Morgan Hill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 25,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MorganHillMember
     
Land | Nicholson Plaza        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NicholsonPlazaMember
     
Land | Oakzanita Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakzanitaSpringsMember
     
Land | Pacific Dunes Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificDunesRanchMember
     
Land | Palm Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 24,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmSpringsMember
     
Land | Parque La Quinta        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParqueLaQuintaMember
     
Land | Pio Pico        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioPicoMember
     
Land | Ponderosa        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PonderosaMember
     
Land | Quail Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailMeadowsMember
     
Land | Rancho Mesa        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoMesaMember
     
Land | Rancho Oso        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 11,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoOsoMember
     
Land | Rancho Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RanchoValleyMember
     
Land | Royal Holiday        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalHolidayMember
     
Land | Royal Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalOaksMember
     
Land | Russian River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RussianRiverMember
     
Land | San Benito        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 19,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanBenitoMember
     
Land | San Francisco RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SanFranciscoRVMember
     
Land | Santa Cruz Ranch RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantaCruzRanchRVMember
     
Land | Santiago Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SantiagoEstatesMember
     
Land | Sea Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaOaksMember
     
Land | Snowflower        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SnowflowerMember
     
Land | Soledad Canyon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 39,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SoledadCanyonMember
     
Land | Sunshadow        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshadowMember
     
Land | Tahoe Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TahoeValleyMember
     
Land | Turtle Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TurtleBeachMember
     
Land | Village of the Four Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageOfFourSeasonsMember
     
Land | Westwinds (4 properties)        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_Westwinds4PropertiesMember
     
Land | Wilderness Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 29,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WildernessLakeMember
     
Land | Yosemite Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 27,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YosemiteLakesMember
     
Land | Bear Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCreekMember
     
Land | Cimarron        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronMember
     
Land | Golden Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceMember
     
Land | Golden Terrace South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceSouthMember
     
Land | Golden Terrace West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GoldenTerraceWestMember
     
Land | Hillcrest Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 289,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestVillageMember
     
Land | Holiday Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayHillsMember
     
Land | Holiday Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageMember
     
Land | Holiday Village I I I [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageOrmandMember
     
Land | Pueblo Grande        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PuebloGrandeMember
     
Land | Woodland Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandHillsMember
     
Land | Stonegate Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StonegateManorMember
     
Land | Aspen Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AspenMeadowsMember
     
Land | Camelot Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,251,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CamelotMeadowsMember
     
Land | Mariners Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MarinersCoveMember
     
Land | McNicol        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_McNicolMember
     
Land | Sweetbriar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SweetbriarMember
     
Land | Waterford        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterfordMember
     
Land | Whispering Pines        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesMember
     
Land | Audubon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AudubonMember
     
Land | Barrington Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BarringtonHillsMember
     
Land | Bay Indies        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayIndiesMember
     
Land | Bay Lake Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLakeEstatesMember
     
Land | Beacon Hill Colony        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconHillColonyMember
     
Land | Beacon Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BeaconTerraceMember
     
Land | Breezy Hill RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BreezyHillRVMember
     
Land | Buccaneer        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuccaneerMember
     
Land | Bulow Village RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowVillageRVMember
     
Land | Bulow Plantation        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BulowPlantationMember
     
Land | Carefree Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeCoveMember
     
Land | Carefree Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarefreeVillageMember
     
Land | Carriage Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarriageCoveMember
     
Land | Cheron Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CheronVillageMember
     
Land | Clerbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ClerbrookMember
     
Land | Clover Leaf Farms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafFarmsMember
     
Land | Clover Leaf Forest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CloverLeafForestMember
     
Land | Coachwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachwoodMember
     
Land | Colony Cove [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 35,859,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColonyCoveMember
     
Land | Coquina Crossing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoquinaCrossingMember
     
Land | Coral Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoralCayMember
     
Land | Country Place        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 18,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountryPlaceMember
     
Land | Countryside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrysideMember
     
Land | Covington Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CovingtonEstatesMember
     
Land | Crystal Isles        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalIslesMember
     
Land | Crystal Lakes-Zephyrhills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrystalLakesZephyrhillsMember
     
Land | Down Yonder        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DownYonderMember
     
Land | East Bay Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EastBayOaksMember
     
Land | Eldorado Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EldoradoVillageMember
     
Land | Emerald Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_EmeraldLakeMember
     
Land | Featherock        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FeatherockMember
     
Land | Fiesta Key [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FiestaKeyMember
     
Land | Fort Myers Beach Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FortMyersBeachResortMember
     
Land | Foxwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FoxwoodMember
     
Land | Glen Ellen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenEllenMember
     
Land | Grand Island        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 125,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandIslandMember
     
Land | Gulf Air Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfAirResortMember
     
Land | Gulf View        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GulfViewMember
     
Land | Hacienda Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaciendaVillageMember
     
Land | Harbor Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborLakesMember
     
Land | Harbor View [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewMember
     
Land | Haselton Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HaseltonVillageMember
     
Land | Heritage Plantation        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritagePlantationMember
     
Land | Heron Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeronCayMember
     
Land | Hidden Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HiddenValleyMember
     
Land | Highland Wood RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 42,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HighlandWoodRVMember
     
Land | Holiday Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayRanchMember
     
Land | Holiday Village II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HolidayVillageVeroMember
     
Land | Indian Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianOaksMember
     
Land | Island Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IslandVistaMember
     
Land | Kings & Queens        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KingsQueensMember
     
Land | Lake Fairways        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeFairwaysMember
     
Land | Lake Haven        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeHavenMember
     
Land | Lake Magic        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMagicMember
     
Land | Lake Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeVillageMember
     
Land | Lake Worth Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWorthVillageMember
     
Land | Lakeland Harbor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandHarborMember
     
Land | Lakeland Junction        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandJunctionMember
     
Land | Lakes at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesAtCountrywoodMember
     
Land | Lakeside Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideTerraceMember
     
Land | Lakewood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodVillageMember
     
Land | Lighthouse Pointe        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 23,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LighthousePointeMember
     
Land | Manatee        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManateeMember
     
Land | Maralago Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MaralagoCayMember
     
Land | Meadows at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsAtCountrywoodMember
     
Land | Mid-Florida Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MidFloridaLakesMember
     
Land | Orange Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrangeLakeMember
     
Land | Oak Bend        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakBendMember
     
Land | Oaks at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtCountrywoodMember
     
Land | Orlando        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 40,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OrlandoMember
     
Land | Palm Beach Colony        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 8,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PalmBeachColonyMember
     
Land | Park City West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkCityWestMember
     
Land | Parkwood Communities        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParkwoodCommunitiesMember
     
Land | Pasco        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PascoMember
     
Land | Peace River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PeaceRiverMember
     
Land | Pickwick        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PickwickMember
     
Land | Pine Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 21,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineLakesMember
     
Land | Pioneer Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PioneerVillageMember
     
Land | Ramblers Rest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RamblersRestMember
     
Land | Ridgewood Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RidgewoodEstatesMember
     
Land | Royal Coachman        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RoyalCoachmanMember
     
Land | Shady Lane Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneOaksMember
     
Land | Shady Lane Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadyLaneVillageMember
     
Land | Shangri La        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShangriLaMember
     
Land | Sherwood Forest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestMember
     
Land | Sherwood Forest RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 568,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SherwoodForestRVMember
     
Land | Silk Oak        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilkOakMember
     
Land | Silver Dollar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SilverDollarMember
     
Land | Sixth Ave.        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SixthAveMember
     
Land | Southern Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernPalmsMember
     
Land | Southernaire [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernaireMember
     
Land | Space Coast RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpaceCoastRVResortMember
     
Land | Starlight Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StarlightRanchMember
     
Land | Sunshine Holiday MH        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayMHMember
     
Land | Sunshine Holiday RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineHolidayRVMember
     
Land | Sunshine Key        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineKeyMember
     
Land | Sunshine Travel        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineTravelMember
     
Land | Tarpon Glen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TarponGlenMember
     
Land | Terra Ceia        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TerraCeiaMember
     
Land | The Heritage        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 346,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HeritageMember
     
Land | The Meadows II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsIiMember
     
Land | Three Flags RV Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThreeFlagsRVResortMember
     
Land | Toby's        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TobysMember
     
Land | Topics        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TopicsMember
     
Land | Tropical Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsKissimmeeMember
     
Land | Tropical Palms II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicalPalmsPuntaGordaMember
     
Land | Vacation Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VacationVillageMember
     
Land | Vero Palm        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VeroPalmMember
     
Land | Villas at Spanish Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillasAtSpanishOaksMember
     
Land | Village Green        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillageGreenMember
     
Land | Whispering Pines - Largo        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhisperingPinesLargoMember
     
Land | Windmill Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillManorMember
     
Land | Windmill Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindmillVillageMember
     
Land | Winds of St. Armands North        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsNorthMember
     
Land | Winds of St. Armands South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WindsOfStArmandsSouthMember
     
Land | Winter Garden        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WinterGardenMember
     
Land | Pine Island Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineIslandResortMember
     
Land | Coach Royale        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CoachRoyaleMember
     
Land | Maple Grove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MapleGroveMember
     
Land | Shenandoah Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShenandoahEstatesMember
     
Land | West Meadow Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestMeadowEstatesMember
     
Land | Golf Vistas Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 1,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GolfVistasEstatesMember
     
Land | O'Connell's        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OConnellsMember
     
Land | Pheasant Lake Estates [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PheasantLakeEstatesMember
     
Land | Pine Country        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineCountryMember
     
Land | Willow Lake Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WillowLakeEstatesMember
     
Land | Indian Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_IndianLakesMember
     
Land | Hoosier Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HoosierEstatesMember
     
Land | Horseshoe Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HorseshoeLakeMember
     
Land | Lakeside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakesideMember
     
Land | North Glen Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NorthGlenVillageMember
     
Land | Oak Tree Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OakTreeVillageMember
     
Land | Twin Mills RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
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= els_TwinMillsRVMember
     
Land | Diamond Caverns Resort & Golf Club        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DiamondCavernsResortGolfClubMember
     
Land | Gateway to Cape Cod        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GatewayToCapeCodMember
     
Land | Hillcrest II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HillcrestRocklandMember
     
Land | Old Chatham RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OldChathamRVMember
     
Land | Sturbridge        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SturbridgeMember
     
Land | The Glen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GlenMember
     
Land | Fernwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FernwoodMember
     
Land | Williams Estates and Peppermint Woods        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsEstatesAndPeppermintWoodsMember
     
Land | Moody Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MoodyBeachMember
     
Land | Pinehirst RV Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PinehirstRVParkMember
     
Land | Mt. Desert Narrows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtDesertNarrowsMember
     
Land | Narrows Too        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NarrowsTooMember
     
Land | Patton Pond        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PattonPondMember
     
Land | Bear Cave Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BearCaveResortMember
     
Land | Lake in the Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeInHillsMember
     
Land | St Clair        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StClairMember
     
Land | Swan Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SwanCreekMember
     
Land | Cedar Knolls        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CedarKnollsMember
     
Land | Cimarron Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CimarronParkMember
     
Land | Rockford Riverview Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RockfordRiverviewEstatesMember
     
Land | Rosemount Woods        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
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/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RosemountWoodsMember
     
Land | Forest Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 13,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ForestLakeMember
     
Land | Goose Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GooseCreekMember
     
Land | Green Mountain Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenMountainParkMember
     
Land | Lake Gaston        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGastonMember
     
Land | Lake Myers RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeMyersRVMember
     
Land | Scenic        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScenicMember
     
Land | Twin Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TwinLakesMember
     
Land | Waterway RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WaterwayRVMember
     
Land | Buena Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BuenaVistaMember
     
Land | Meadow Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowParkMember
     
Land | Sandy Beach RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SandyBeachRVMember
     
Land | Tuxbury Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TuxburyResortMember
     
Land | Chestnut Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChestnutLakeMember
     
Land | Lake & Shore        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeShoreMember
     
Land | Pine Ridge at Crestwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PineRidgeAtCrestwoodMember
     
Land | Sea Pines        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeaPinesMember
     
Land | Bonanza        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BonanzaMember
     
Land | Boulder Cascade        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BoulderCascadeMember
     
Land | Cabana        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CabanaMember
     
Land | Flamingo West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FlamingoWestMember
     
Land | Las Vegas        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 14,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LasVegasMember
     
Land | Villa Borega        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VillaBoregaMember
     
Land | Alpine Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 153,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlpineLakeMember
     
Land | Brennan Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BrennanBeachMember
     
Land | Greenwood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenwoodVillageMember
     
Land | Lake George Escape        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeEscapeMember
     
Land | Lake George Schroon Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeGeorgeSchroonValleyMember
     
Land | Mountain View - NV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewNVMember
     
Land | Rondout Valley Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RondoutValleyResortMember
     
Land | The Woodlands        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WoodlandsMember
     
Land | Kenisee Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KeniseeLakeMember
     
Land | Wilmington        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 3,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilmingtonMember
     
Land | Bend        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BendMember
     
Land | Falcon Wood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FalconWoodVillageMember
     
Land | Mt. Hood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MtHoodMember
     
Land | Pacific City        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 14,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PacificCityMember
     
Land | Quail Hollow        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_QuailHollowMember
     
Land | Seaside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 12,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SeasideMember
     
Land | Shadowbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ShadowbrookMember
     
Land | South Jetty        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 9,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthJettyMember
     
Land | Whalers Rest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WhalersRestMember
     
Land | Appalachian        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AppalachianMember
     
Land | Circle M        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CircleMMember
     
Land | Dutch County        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_DutchCountyMember
     
Land | Gettysburg Farm        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GettysburgFarmMember
     
Land | Green Acres        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenAcresMember
     
Land | Greenbriar Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GreenbriarVillageMember
     
Land | Hershey        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 17,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HersheyMember
     
Land | Lil Wolf        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LilWolfMember
     
Land | Mountain View - PA        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountainViewPaMember
     
Land | Robin Hill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RobinHillMember
     
Land | Scotrun        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ScotrunMember
     
Land | Spring Gulch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SpringGulchMember
     
Land | Sun Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunValleyMember
     
Land | Timothy Lake North        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeNorthMember
     
Land | Timothy Lake South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TimothyLakeSouthMember
     
Land | Carolina Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CarolinaLandingMember
     
Land | Inlet Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_InletOaksMember
     
Land | The Oaks at Point South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OaksAtPointSouthMember
     
Land | Natchez Trace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 7,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NatchezTraceMember
     
Land | Cherokee Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CherokeeLandingMember
     
Land | Bay Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BayLandingMember
     
Land | Colorado River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ColoradoRiverMember
     
Land | Country Sunshine        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CountrySunshineMember
     
Land | Fun n Sun RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 412,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FunNSunRVMember
     
Land | Lake Conroe        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 18,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeConroeMember
     
Land | Lake Tawakoni        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTawakoniMember
     
Land | Lake Texoma        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 6,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeTexomaMember
     
Land | Lake Whitney        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakeWhitneyMember
     
Land | Lakewood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakewoodMember
     
Land | Medina Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 12,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MedinaLakeMember
     
Land | Paradise Park RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseParkRVMember
     
Land | Paradise South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseSouthMember
     
Land | Southern Comfort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SouthernComfortMember
     
Land | Sunshine RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SunshineRVMember
     
Land | Tropic Winds        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TropicWindsMember
     
Land | Victoria Palms [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VictoriaPalmsMember
     
Land | All Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AllSeasonsMember
     
Land | St. George        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 2,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_StGeorgeMember
     
Land | Westwood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodVillageMember
     
Land | Chesapeake Bay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 16,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChesapeakeBayMember
     
Land | Harbor View II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_HarborViewIIMember
     
Land | Lynchburg        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LynchburgMember
     
Land | Meadows of Chantilly        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MeadowsOfChantillyMember
     
Land | Regency Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RegencyLakesMember
     
Land | Virginia Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 8,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_VirginiaLandingMember
     
Land | Williamsburg        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WilliamsburgMember
     
Land | Birch Bay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 7,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BirchBayMember
     
Land | Chehalis        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 8,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ChehalisMember
     
Land | Crescent Bar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_CrescentBarMember
     
Land | Grandy Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_GrandyCreekMember
     
Land | Kloshe Illahee        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_KlosheIllaheeMember
     
Land | La Conner        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LaConnerMember
     
Land | Leavenworth        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LeavenworthMember
     
Land | Little Diamond        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LittleDiamondMember
     
Land | Long Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LongBeachMember
     
Land | Mount Vernon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 8,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_MountVernonMember
     
Land | Oceana        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 4,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_OceanaMember
     
Land | Paradise II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 7,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ParadiseIIMember
     
Land | Tall Chief        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TallChiefMember
     
Land | Thunderbird        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 8,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ThunderbirdMember
     
Land | Arrowhead        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ArrowheadMember
     
Land | Blackhawk RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_BlackhawkRVResortMember
     
Land | Fremont        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_FremontMember
     
Land | Lakeland RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_LakelandRVResortMember
     
Land | Rainbow Lake Manor [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RainbowLakeManorMember
     
Land | Neshonoc Lakeside [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_NeshonocLakesideMember
     
Land | Plymouth Rock        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_PlymouthRockMember
     
Land | Tranquil Timbers        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_TranquilTimbersMember
     
Land | Westwood Estates [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_WestwoodEstatesMember
     
Land | Yukon Trails        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_YukonTrailsMember
     
Land | Realty Systems, Inc.        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_RealtySystemsIncMember
     
Land | Alamo Palms [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_AlamoPalmsMember
     
Land | Subtotal of Properties Held for Long Term [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) 41,199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_SubtotalOfPropertiesHeldForLongTermMember
     
Land | Management Business and Other [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (Improvements) $ 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionCarryingCosts
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= els_ManagementBusinessAndOtherMember
     
City [Member] | Hillcrest [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clearwater      
City [Member] | Hidden Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Arley      
City [Member] | Apache East        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Apache Junction      
City [Member] | Apollo Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Phoenix      
City [Member] | Araby        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Yuma      
City [Member] | Cactus Gardens        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Yuma      
City [Member] | Capri RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Yuma      
City [Member] | Carefree Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Phoenix      
City [Member] | Casa del Sol East II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Glendale      
City [Member] | Casa del Sol East III        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Glendale      
City [Member] | Casa del Sol West I        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Peoria      
City [Member] | Casita Verde RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Casa Grande      
City [Member] | Central Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Phoenix      
City [Member] | Countryside RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Apache Junction      
City [Member] | Denali Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Apache Junction      
City [Member] | Desert Paradise        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Yuma      
City [Member] | Desert Skies        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Phoenix      
City [Member] | Desert Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Salome      
City [Member] | Fairview Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Tucson      
City [Member] | Fiesta Grande RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Casa Grande      
City [Member] | Foothill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Yuma      
City [Member] | Foothills West RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Casa Grande      
City [Member] | Golden Sun RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Apache Junction      
City [Member] | Hacienda De Valencia        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Mesa      
City [Member] | Mesa Spirit [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Mesa      
City [Member] | Mesa Verde        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Cottonwood      
City [Member] | Monte Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Mesa      
City [Member] | Palm Shadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Glendale      
City [Member] | Paradise [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Sun City      
City [Member] | Sedona Shadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Sedona      
City [Member] | Seyenna Vistas [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Mesa      
City [Member] | Suni Sands        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Yuma      
City [Member] | Sunrise Heights        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Phoenix      
City [Member] | Sunshine Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Chandler      
City [Member] | The Highlands at Brentwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Mesa      
City [Member] | Meadows [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Tempe      
City [Member] | Valley Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Benson      
City [Member] | Venture In        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Show Low      
City [Member] | Verde Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Cottonwood      
City [Member] | Viewpoint        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Mesa      
City [Member] | Westpark        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Wickenburg      
City [Member] | Whispering Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Phoenix      
City [Member] | Cultus Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lindell Beach      
City [Member] | California Hawaiian [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property San Jose      
City [Member] | Colony Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ceres      
City [Member] | Concord Cascade        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Pacheco      
City [Member] | Contempo Marin        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property San Rafael      
City [Member] | Coralwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Modesto      
City [Member] | Date Palm Country Club        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Cathedral City      
City [Member] | Date Palm RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Cathedral City      
City [Member] | DeAnza Santa Cruz        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Santa Cruz      
City [Member] | Four Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fresno      
City [Member] | Idyllwild        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Pine Cove      
City [Member] | Laguna Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property San Luis Obispo      
City [Member] | Lake Minden        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Nicolaus      
City [Member] | Lake of the Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Oregon House      
City [Member] | Lamplighter        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Spring Valley      
City [Member] | Las Palmas        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rialto      
City [Member] | Los Ranchos        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Apple Valley      
City [Member] | Meadowbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Santee      
City [Member] | Monte del Lago        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Castroville      
City [Member] | Morgan Hill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Morgan Hill      
City [Member] | Nicholson Plaza        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property San Jose      
City [Member] | Oakzanita Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Descanso      
City [Member] | Pacific Dunes Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Oceana      
City [Member] | Palm Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Palm Desert      
City [Member] | Parque La Quinta        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rialto      
City [Member] | Pio Pico        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Jamul      
City [Member] | Ponderosa        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lotus      
City [Member] | Quail Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Riverbank      
City [Member] | Rancho Mesa        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property El Cajon      
City [Member] | Rancho Oso        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Santa Barbara      
City [Member] | Rancho Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property El Cajon      
City [Member] | Royal Holiday        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Hemet      
City [Member] | Royal Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Visalia      
City [Member] | Russian River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Cloverdale      
City [Member] | San Benito        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Paicines      
City [Member] | San Francisco RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Pacifica      
City [Member] | Santa Cruz Ranch RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Scotts Valley      
City [Member] | Santiago Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Sylmar      
City [Member] | Sea Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Los Osos      
City [Member] | Snowflower        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Emigrant Gap      
City [Member] | Soledad Canyon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Acton      
City [Member] | Sunshadow        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property San Jose      
City [Member] | Tahoe Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lake Tahoe      
City [Member] | Turtle Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Manteca      
City [Member] | Village of the Four Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property San Jose      
City [Member] | Westwinds (4 properties)        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property San Jose      
City [Member] | Wilderness Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Menifee      
City [Member] | Yosemite Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Groveland      
City [Member] | Bear Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Denver      
City [Member] | Cimarron        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Broomfield      
City [Member] | Golden Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Golden      
City [Member] | Golden Terrace South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Golden      
City [Member] | Golden Terrace West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Golden      
City [Member] | Hillcrest Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Aurora      
City [Member] | Holiday Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Denver      
City [Member] | Holiday Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Co. Springs      
City [Member] | Holiday Village I I I [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ormond Beach      
City [Member] | Pueblo Grande        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Pueblo      
City [Member] | Woodland Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Thornton      
City [Member] | Stonegate Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property North Windham      
City [Member] | Aspen Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rehoboth      
City [Member] | Camelot Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rehoboth      
City [Member] | Mariners Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Millsboro      
City [Member] | McNicol        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rehoboth      
City [Member] | Sweetbriar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rehoboth      
City [Member] | Waterford        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Bear      
City [Member] | Whispering Pines        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lewes      
City [Member] | Audubon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Orlando      
City [Member] | Barrington Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Hudson      
City [Member] | Bay Indies        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Venice      
City [Member] | Bay Lake Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Nokomis      
City [Member] | Beacon Hill Colony        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lakeland      
City [Member] | Beacon Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lakeland      
City [Member] | Breezy Hill RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Pompano Beach      
City [Member] | Buccaneer        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property N. Ft. Myers      
City [Member] | Bulow Village RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Flagler Beach      
City [Member] | Bulow Plantation        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Flagler Beach      
City [Member] | Carefree Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fort Lauderdale      
City [Member] | Carefree Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Tampa      
City [Member] | Carriage Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Daytona Beach      
City [Member] | Cheron Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Davie      
City [Member] | Clerbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clermont      
City [Member] | Clover Leaf Farms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Brooksville      
City [Member] | Clover Leaf Forest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Brooksville      
City [Member] | Coachwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Leesburg      
City [Member] | Colony Cove [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ellenton      
City [Member] | Coquina Crossing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Elkton      
City [Member] | Coral Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Margate      
City [Member] | Country Place        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property New Port Richey      
City [Member] | Countryside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Vero Beach      
City [Member] | Covington Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Saint Cloud      
City [Member] | Crystal Isles        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Crystal River      
City [Member] | Crystal Lakes-Zephyrhills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Zephyrhills      
City [Member] | Down Yonder        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Largo      
City [Member] | East Bay Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Largo      
City [Member] | Eldorado Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Largo      
City [Member] | Emerald Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Punta Gorda      
City [Member] | Featherock        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Valrico      
City [Member] | Fiesta Key [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Long Key      
City [Member] | Fort Myers Beach Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fort Myers Beach      
City [Member] | Foxwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ocala      
City [Member] | Glen Ellen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clearwater      
City [Member] | Grand Island        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Grand Island      
City [Member] | Gulf Air Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fort Myers Beach      
City [Member] | Gulf View        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Punta Gorda      
City [Member] | Hacienda Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property New Port Richey      
City [Member] | Harbor Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Port Charlotte      
City [Member] | Harbor View [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property New Port Richey      
City [Member] | Haselton Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Eustis      
City [Member] | Heritage Plantation        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Vero Beach      
City [Member] | Heron Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Vero Beach      
City [Member] | Hidden Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Orlando      
City [Member] | Highland Wood RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Pompano Beach      
City [Member] | Holiday Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clearwater      
City [Member] | Holiday Village II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Vero Beach      
City [Member] | Indian Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rockledge      
City [Member] | Island Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property North Ft. Myers      
City [Member] | Kings & Queens        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lakeland      
City [Member] | Lake Fairways        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property N. Ft. Myers      
City [Member] | Lake Haven        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Dunedin      
City [Member] | Lake Magic        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clermont      
City [Member] | Lake Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Nokomis      
City [Member] | Lake Worth Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lake Worth      
City [Member] | Lakeland Harbor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lakeland      
City [Member] | Lakeland Junction        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lakeland      
City [Member] | Lakes at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Plant City      
City [Member] | Lakeside Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fruitland Park      
City [Member] | Lakewood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Melbourne      
City [Member] | Lighthouse Pointe        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Port Orange      
City [Member] | Manatee        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Bradenton      
City [Member] | Maralago Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lantana      
City [Member] | Meadows at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Plant City      
City [Member] | Mid-Florida Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Leesburg      
City [Member] | Orange Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clermont      
City [Member] | Oak Bend        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ocala      
City [Member] | Oaks at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Plant City      
City [Member] | Orlando        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clermont      
City [Member] | Palm Beach Colony        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property West Palm Beach      
City [Member] | Park City West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fort Lauderdale      
City [Member] | Parkwood Communities        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Wildwood      
City [Member] | Pasco        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lutz      
City [Member] | Peace River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Wauchula      
City [Member] | Pickwick        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Port Orange      
City [Member] | Pine Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property N. Ft. Myers      
City [Member] | Pioneer Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property N. Ft. Myers      
City [Member] | Ramblers Rest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Venice      
City [Member] | Ridgewood Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ellenton      
City [Member] | Royal Coachman        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Nokomis      
City [Member] | Shady Lane Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clearwater      
City [Member] | Shady Lane Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clearwater      
City [Member] | Shangri La        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Largo      
City [Member] | Sherwood Forest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Kissimmee      
City [Member] | Sherwood Forest RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Kissimmee      
City [Member] | Silk Oak        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clearwater      
City [Member] | Silver Dollar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Odessa      
City [Member] | Sixth Ave.        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Zephryhills      
City [Member] | Southern Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Eustis      
City [Member] | Southernaire [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Mt. Dora      
City [Member] | Space Coast RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rockledge      
City [Member] | Starlight Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Orlando      
City [Member] | Sunshine Holiday MH        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ormond Beach      
City [Member] | Sunshine Holiday RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fort Lauderdale      
City [Member] | Sunshine Key        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Big Pine Key      
City [Member] | Sunshine Travel        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Vero Beach      
City [Member] | Tarpon Glen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Tarpon Springs      
City [Member] | Terra Ceia        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Palmetto      
City [Member] | The Heritage        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property N. Ft. Myers      
City [Member] | The Meadows II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Palm Beach Gardens      
City [Member] | Three Flags RV Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Wildwood      
City [Member] | Toby's        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Arcadia      
City [Member] | Topics        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Spring Hill      
City [Member] | Tropical Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Kissimmee      
City [Member] | Tropical Palms II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Punta Gorda      
City [Member] | Vacation Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Largo      
City [Member] | Vero Palm        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Vero Beach      
City [Member] | Villas at Spanish Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ocala      
City [Member] | Village Green        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Vero Beach      
City [Member] | Whispering Pines - Largo        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Largo      
City [Member] | Windmill Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Bradenton      
City [Member] | Windmill Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property N. Ft. Myers      
City [Member] | Winds of St. Armands North        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Sarasota      
City [Member] | Winds of St. Armands South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Sarasota      
City [Member] | Winter Garden        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Winter Garden      
City [Member] | Pine Island Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property St. James City      
City [Member] | Coach Royale        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Boise      
City [Member] | Maple Grove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Boise      
City [Member] | Shenandoah Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Boise      
City [Member] | West Meadow Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Boise      
City [Member] | Golf Vistas Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Monee      
City [Member] | O'Connell's        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Amboy      
City [Member] | Pheasant Lake Estates [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Beecher      
City [Member] | Pine Country        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Belvidere      
City [Member] | Willow Lake Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Elgin      
City [Member] | Indian Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Batesville      
City [Member] | Hoosier Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lebanon      
City [Member] | Horseshoe Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clinton      
City [Member] | Lakeside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property New Carlisle      
City [Member] | North Glen Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Westfield      
City [Member] | Oak Tree Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Portage      
City [Member] | Twin Mills RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Howe      
City [Member] | Diamond Caverns Resort & Golf Club        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Park City      
City [Member] | Gateway to Cape Cod        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rochester      
City [Member] | Hillcrest II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rockland      
City [Member] | Old Chatham RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property South Dennis      
City [Member] | Sturbridge        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Sturbridge      
City [Member] | The Glen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Norwell      
City [Member] | Fernwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Capitol Heights      
City [Member] | Williams Estates and Peppermint Woods        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Middle River      
City [Member] | Moody Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Moody      
City [Member] | Pinehirst RV Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Old Orchard Beach      
City [Member] | Mt. Desert Narrows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Bar Harbor      
City [Member] | Narrows Too        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Trenton      
City [Member] | Patton Pond        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ellsworth      
City [Member] | Bear Cave Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Buchanan      
City [Member] | Lake in the Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Auburn Hills      
City [Member] | St Clair        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property St Clair      
City [Member] | Swan Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ypsilanti      
City [Member] | Cedar Knolls        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Apple Valley      
City [Member] | Cimarron Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lake Elmo      
City [Member] | Rockford Riverview Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rockford      
City [Member] | Rosemount Woods        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Rosemount      
City [Member] | Forest Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Advance      
City [Member] | Goose Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Newport      
City [Member] | Green Mountain Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lenoir      
City [Member] | Lake Gaston        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Littleton      
City [Member] | Lake Myers RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Mocksville      
City [Member] | Scenic        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Asheville      
City [Member] | Twin Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Chocowinity      
City [Member] | Waterway RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Cedar Point      
City [Member] | Buena Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fargo      
City [Member] | Meadow Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fargo      
City [Member] | Pine Acres Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Raymond      
City [Member] | Sandy Beach RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Contoocook      
City [Member] | Tuxbury Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property South Hampton      
City [Member] | Chestnut Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Port Republic      
City [Member] | Echo Farms Campground [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ocean View      
City [Member] | Lake & Shore        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Ocean View      
City [Member] | Mays Landing Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Mays Landing      
City [Member] | Pine Ridge at Crestwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Whiting      
City [Member] | Sea Pines        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Swainton      
City [Member] | Bonanza        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Las Vegas      
City [Member] | Boulder Cascade        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Las Vegas      
City [Member] | Cabana        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Las Vegas      
City [Member] | Flamingo West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Las Vegas      
City [Member] | Las Vegas        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Las Vegas      
City [Member] | Villa Borega        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Las Vegas      
City [Member] | Alpine Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Corinth      
City [Member] | Brennan Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Pulaski      
City [Member] | Greenwood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Manorville      
City [Member] | Lake George Escape        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lake George      
City [Member] | Lake George Schroon Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Warrensburg      
City [Member] | Mountain View - NV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Henderson      
City [Member] | Rondout Valley Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Accord      
City [Member] | The Woodlands        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lockport      
City [Member] | Kenisee Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Jefferson      
City [Member] | Wilmington        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Wilmington      
City [Member] | Bend        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Bend      
City [Member] | Falcon Wood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Eugene      
City [Member] | Mt. Hood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Welches      
City [Member] | Pacific City        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Cloverdale      
City [Member] | Quail Hollow        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fairview      
City [Member] | Seaside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Seaside      
City [Member] | Shadowbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Clackamas      
City [Member] | South Jetty        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Florence      
City [Member] | Whalers Rest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property South Beach      
City [Member] | Appalachian        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Shartlesville      
City [Member] | Circle M        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lancaster      
City [Member] | Dutch County        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Manheim      
City [Member] | Gettysburg Farm        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Dover      
City [Member] | Green Acres        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Breinigsville      
City [Member] | Greenbriar Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Bath      
City [Member] | Hershey        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lebanon      
City [Member] | Lil Wolf        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Orefield      
City [Member] | Mountain View - PA        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Walnutport      
City [Member] | Robin Hill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lenhartsville      
City [Member] | Scotrun        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Scotrun      
City [Member] | Spring Gulch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property New Holland      
City [Member] | Sun Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Bowmansville      
City [Member] | Timothy Lake North        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property East Stroudsburg      
City [Member] | Timothy Lake South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property East Stroudsburg      
City [Member] | Carolina Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fair Play      
City [Member] | Inlet Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Murrells Inlet      
City [Member] | The Oaks at Point South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Yemassee      
City [Member] | Natchez Trace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Hohenwald      
City [Member] | Cherokee Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Middleton      
City [Member] | Bay Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Bridgeport      
City [Member] | Colorado River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Columbus      
City [Member] | Country Sunshine        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Weslaco      
City [Member] | Fun n Sun RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property San Benito      
City [Member] | Lake Conroe        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Willis      
City [Member] | Lake Tawakoni        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Point      
City [Member] | Lake Texoma        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Gordonville      
City [Member] | Lake Whitney        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Whitney      
City [Member] | Lakewood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Harlingen      
City [Member] | Medina Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lakehills      
City [Member] | Paradise Park RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Harlingen      
City [Member] | Paradise South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Mercedes      
City [Member] | Southern Comfort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Weslaco      
City [Member] | Sunshine RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Harlingen      
City [Member] | Tropic Winds        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Harlingen      
City [Member] | Victoria Palms [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Harlingen      
City [Member] | All Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Salt Lake City      
City [Member] | St. George        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Hurricane      
City [Member] | Westwood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Farr West      
City [Member] | Chesapeake Bay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Cloucester      
City [Member] | Harbor View II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Colonial Beach      
City [Member] | Lynchburg        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Gladys      
City [Member] | Meadows of Chantilly        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Chantilly      
City [Member] | Regency Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Winchester      
City [Member] | Virginia Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Quinby      
City [Member] | Williamsburg        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Williamsburg      
City [Member] | Birch Bay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Blaine      
City [Member] | Chehalis        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Chehalis      
City [Member] | Crescent Bar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Quincy      
City [Member] | Grandy Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Concrete      
City [Member] | Kloshe Illahee        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Federal Way      
City [Member] | La Conner        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property La Conner      
City [Member] | Leavenworth        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Leavenworth      
City [Member] | Little Diamond        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Newport      
City [Member] | Long Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Seaview      
City [Member] | Mount Vernon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Bow      
City [Member] | Oceana        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Oceana City      
City [Member] | Paradise II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Silver Creek      
City [Member] | Tall Chief        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fall City      
City [Member] | Thunderbird        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Monroe      
City [Member] | Arrowhead        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Wisconsin Dells      
City [Member] | Blackhawk RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Milton      
City [Member] | Fremont        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Fremont      
City [Member] | Lakeland RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Milton      
City [Member] | Rainbow Lake Manor [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Bristol      
City [Member] | Neshonoc Lakeside [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property LaCrosse County      
City [Member] | Plymouth Rock        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Elkhart Lake      
City [Member] | Tranquil Timbers        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Sturgeon Bay      
City [Member] | Westwood Estates [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Pleasant Prairie      
City [Member] | Yukon Trails        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Lyndon Station      
City [Member] | Alamo Palms [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property Harlingen      
State [Member] | Hillcrest [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Hidden Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AL      
State [Member] | Apache East        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Apollo Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Araby        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Cactus Gardens        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Capri RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Carefree Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Casa del Sol East II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Casa del Sol East III        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Casa del Sol West I        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Casita Verde RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Central Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Countryside RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Denali Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Desert Paradise        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Desert Skies        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Desert Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Fairview Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Fiesta Grande RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Foothill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Foothills West RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Golden Sun RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Hacienda De Valencia        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Mesa Spirit [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Mesa Verde        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Monte Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Palm Shadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Paradise [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Sedona Shadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Seyenna Vistas [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Suni Sands        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Sunrise Heights        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Sunshine Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | The Highlands at Brentwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Meadows [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Valley Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Venture In        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Verde Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Viewpoint        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Westpark        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Whispering Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property AZ      
State [Member] | Cultus Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property BC      
State [Member] | California Hawaiian [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Colony Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Concord Cascade        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Contempo Marin        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Coralwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Date Palm Country Club        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Date Palm RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | DeAnza Santa Cruz        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Four Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Idyllwild        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Laguna Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Lake Minden        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Lake of the Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Lamplighter        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Las Palmas        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Los Ranchos        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Meadowbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Monte del Lago        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Morgan Hill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Nicholson Plaza        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Oakzanita Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Pacific Dunes Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Palm Springs        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Parque La Quinta        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Pio Pico        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Ponderosa        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Quail Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Rancho Mesa        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Rancho Oso        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Rancho Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Royal Holiday        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Royal Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Russian River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | San Benito        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | San Francisco RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Santa Cruz Ranch RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Santiago Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Sea Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Snowflower        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Soledad Canyon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Sunshadow        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Tahoe Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Turtle Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Village of the Four Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Westwinds (4 properties)        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Wilderness Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Yosemite Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CA      
State [Member] | Bear Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CO      
State [Member] | Cimarron        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CO      
State [Member] | Golden Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CO      
State [Member] | Golden Terrace South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CO      
State [Member] | Golden Terrace West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CO      
State [Member] | Hillcrest Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CO      
State [Member] | Holiday Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CO      
State [Member] | Holiday Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CO      
State [Member] | Holiday Village I I I [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Pueblo Grande        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CO      
State [Member] | Woodland Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CO      
State [Member] | Stonegate Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property CT      
State [Member] | Aspen Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property DE      
State [Member] | Camelot Meadows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property DE      
State [Member] | Mariners Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property DE      
State [Member] | McNicol        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property DE      
State [Member] | Sweetbriar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property DE      
State [Member] | Waterford        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property DE      
State [Member] | Whispering Pines        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property DE      
State [Member] | Audubon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Barrington Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Bay Indies        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Bay Lake Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Beacon Hill Colony        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Beacon Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Breezy Hill RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Buccaneer        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Bulow Village RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Bulow Plantation        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Carefree Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Carefree Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Carriage Cove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Cheron Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Clerbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Clover Leaf Farms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Clover Leaf Forest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Coachwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Colony Cove [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Coquina Crossing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Coral Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Country Place        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Countryside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Covington Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Crystal Isles        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Crystal Lakes-Zephyrhills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Down Yonder        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | East Bay Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Eldorado Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Emerald Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Featherock        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Fiesta Key [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Fort Myers Beach Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Foxwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Glen Ellen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Grand Island        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Gulf Air Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Gulf View        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Hacienda Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Harbor Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Harbor View [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Haselton Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Heritage Plantation        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Heron Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Hidden Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Highland Wood RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Holiday Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Holiday Village II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Indian Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Island Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Kings & Queens        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Lake Fairways        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Lake Haven        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Lake Magic        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Lake Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Lake Worth Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Lakeland Harbor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Lakeland Junction        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Lakes at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Lakeside Terrace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Lakewood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Lighthouse Pointe        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Manatee        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Maralago Cay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Meadows at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Mid-Florida Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Orange Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Oak Bend        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Oaks at Countrywood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Orlando        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Palm Beach Colony        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Park City West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Parkwood Communities        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Pasco        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Peace River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Pickwick        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Pine Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Pioneer Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Ramblers Rest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Ridgewood Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Royal Coachman        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Shady Lane Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Shady Lane Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Shangri La        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Sherwood Forest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Sherwood Forest RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Silk Oak        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Silver Dollar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Sixth Ave.        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Southern Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Southernaire [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Space Coast RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Starlight Ranch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Sunshine Holiday MH        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Sunshine Holiday RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Sunshine Key        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Sunshine Travel        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Tarpon Glen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Terra Ceia        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | The Heritage        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | The Meadows II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Three Flags RV Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Toby's        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Topics        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Tropical Palms        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Tropical Palms II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Vacation Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Vero Palm        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Villas at Spanish Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Village Green        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Whispering Pines - Largo        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Windmill Manor        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Windmill Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Winds of St. Armands North        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Winds of St. Armands South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Winter Garden        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Pine Island Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property FL      
State [Member] | Coach Royale        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property ID      
State [Member] | Maple Grove        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property ID      
State [Member] | Shenandoah Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property ID      
State [Member] | West Meadow Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property ID      
State [Member] | Golf Vistas Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IL      
State [Member] | O'Connell's        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IL      
State [Member] | Pheasant Lake Estates [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IL      
State [Member] | Pine Country        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IL      
State [Member] | Willow Lake Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IL      
State [Member] | Indian Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IN      
State [Member] | Hoosier Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IN      
State [Member] | Horseshoe Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IN      
State [Member] | Lakeside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IN      
State [Member] | North Glen Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IN      
State [Member] | Oak Tree Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IN      
State [Member] | Twin Mills RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property IN      
State [Member] | Diamond Caverns Resort & Golf Club        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property KY      
State [Member] | Gateway to Cape Cod        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MA      
State [Member] | Hillcrest II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MA      
State [Member] | Old Chatham RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MA      
State [Member] | Sturbridge        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MA      
State [Member] | The Glen        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MA      
State [Member] | Fernwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MD      
State [Member] | Williams Estates and Peppermint Woods        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MD      
State [Member] | Moody Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property ME      
State [Member] | Pinehirst RV Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property ME      
State [Member] | Mt. Desert Narrows        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property ME      
State [Member] | Narrows Too        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property ME      
State [Member] | Patton Pond        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property ME      
State [Member] | Bear Cave Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MI      
State [Member] | Lake in the Hills        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MI      
State [Member] | St Clair        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MI      
State [Member] | Swan Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MI      
State [Member] | Cedar Knolls        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MN      
State [Member] | Cimarron Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MN      
State [Member] | Rockford Riverview Estates        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MN      
State [Member] | Rosemount Woods        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property MN      
State [Member] | Forest Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NC      
State [Member] | Goose Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NC      
State [Member] | Green Mountain Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NC      
State [Member] | Lake Gaston        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NC      
State [Member] | Lake Myers RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NC      
State [Member] | Scenic        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NC      
State [Member] | Twin Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NC      
State [Member] | Waterway RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NC      
State [Member] | Buena Vista        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property ND      
State [Member] | Meadow Park        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property ND      
State [Member] | Pine Acres Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NH      
State [Member] | Sandy Beach RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NH      
State [Member] | Tuxbury Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NH      
State [Member] | Chestnut Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NJ      
State [Member] | Echo Farms Campground [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NJ      
State [Member] | Lake & Shore        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NJ      
State [Member] | Mays Landing Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NJ      
State [Member] | Pine Ridge at Crestwood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NJ      
State [Member] | Sea Pines        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NJ      
State [Member] | Bonanza        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NV      
State [Member] | Boulder Cascade        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NV      
State [Member] | Cabana        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NV      
State [Member] | Flamingo West        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NV      
State [Member] | Las Vegas        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NV      
State [Member] | Villa Borega        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NV      
State [Member] | Alpine Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NY      
State [Member] | Brennan Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NY      
State [Member] | Greenwood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NY      
State [Member] | Lake George Escape        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NY      
State [Member] | Lake George Schroon Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NY      
State [Member] | Mountain View - NV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NV      
State [Member] | Rondout Valley Resort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NY      
State [Member] | The Woodlands        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property NY      
State [Member] | Kenisee Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property OH      
State [Member] | Wilmington        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property OH      
State [Member] | Bend        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property OR      
State [Member] | Falcon Wood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property OR      
State [Member] | Mt. Hood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property OR      
State [Member] | Pacific City        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property OR      
State [Member] | Quail Hollow        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property OR      
State [Member] | Seaside        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property OR      
State [Member] | Shadowbrook        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property OR      
State [Member] | South Jetty        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property OR      
State [Member] | Whalers Rest        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property OR      
State [Member] | Appalachian        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Circle M        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Dutch County        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Gettysburg Farm        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Green Acres        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Greenbriar Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Hershey        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Lil Wolf        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Mountain View - PA        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Robin Hill        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Scotrun        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Spring Gulch        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Sun Valley        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Timothy Lake North        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Timothy Lake South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property PA      
State [Member] | Carolina Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property SC      
State [Member] | Inlet Oaks        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property SC      
State [Member] | The Oaks at Point South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property SC      
State [Member] | Natchez Trace        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TN      
State [Member] | Cherokee Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TN      
State [Member] | Bay Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Colorado River        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Country Sunshine        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Fun n Sun RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Lake Conroe        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Lake Tawakoni        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Lake Texoma        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Lake Whitney        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Lakewood        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Medina Lake        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Paradise Park RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Paradise South        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Southern Comfort        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Sunshine RV        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Tropic Winds        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | Victoria Palms [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX      
State [Member] | All Seasons        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property UT      
State [Member] | St. George        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property UT      
State [Member] | Westwood Village        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property UT      
State [Member] | Chesapeake Bay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property VA      
State [Member] | Harbor View II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property VA      
State [Member] | Lynchburg        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property VA      
State [Member] | Meadows of Chantilly        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property VA      
State [Member] | Regency Lakes        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property VA      
State [Member] | Virginia Landing        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property VA      
State [Member] | Williamsburg        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property VA      
State [Member] | Birch Bay        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Chehalis        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Crescent Bar        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Grandy Creek        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Kloshe Illahee        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | La Conner        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Leavenworth        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Little Diamond        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Long Beach        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Mount Vernon        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Oceana        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Paradise II        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Tall Chief        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Thunderbird        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WA      
State [Member] | Arrowhead        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WI      
State [Member] | Blackhawk RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WI      
State [Member] | Fremont        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WI      
State [Member] | Lakeland RV Resort [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WI      
State [Member] | Rainbow Lake Manor [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WI      
State [Member] | Neshonoc Lakeside [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WI      
State [Member] | Plymouth Rock        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WI      
State [Member] | Tranquil Timbers        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WI      
State [Member] | Westwood Estates [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WI      
State [Member] | Yukon Trails        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property WI      
State [Member] | Alamo Palms [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Geographical Location of Property TX