Preneed Trust Investments (Components of preneed cemetery trust investments) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Preneed cemetery trust investments	$ 73,067	$ 70,960
Preneed Cemetery Trust Investments [Member]
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Preneed cemetary trust investments, at fair value	75,213	73,126
Less: allowance for contract cancellation	(2,146)	(2,166)
Preneed cemetery trust investments	$ 73,067	$ 70,960

The aggregate fair value as of the balance sheet date of financial instruments and other positions which may include: (1) fixed income securities; (2) common stock; (3) mutual funds; (4) common trust funds; (5) master trusts; (6) certificates of deposit; (7) bank deposits; and (8) partnerships.

No definition available.

Name:	csv_PreneedCemeteryTrustInvestments
Namespace Prefix:	csv_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant