The Río Quillinzo originates in the Sierras de los Comechingones and flows through the Calamuchita valley in the province of Córdoba, Argentina, before joining the Río La Cruz and emptying into the Embalse Río Tercero (officially Embalse Ministro Pistarini). The river's name derives from the Comechingón language and translates roughly as "water that cures," a reference to the water's reputed purity. It is widely regarded as one of the cleanest rivers in Córdoba province, with clear, golden-tinted water and a sandy bed.

The character of the river is generally calm and low-gradient. Along its course there are small cascades, calm pools, and natural swimming holes of varying depths — some shallow enough for children, others deep enough for a full plunge. Wide sandy beaches line much of the channel, and dense riparian woodland borders the banks. Boulders along the riverbed bear morteros (grinding stones) and other markings left by pre-Columbian inhabitants, giving the corridor historical and archaeological interest.

The small locality of Villa Quillinzo sits at the river's lower reach, near its confluence with the Río La Cruz, approximately 135–155 km from the city of Córdoba and about 30 km from the town of Embalse. Access from Córdoba capital follows Ruta 36 to Almafuerte, then Ruta 5 to Embalse, then Avenida General Pistarini toward La Cruz, followed by 8 km of gravel road heading west to Villa Quillinzo. The gravel section is in reasonable condition. The drive takes roughly two hours. The road is characterized as a mountain route, so appropriate vehicle preparation is advisable.

In and around Villa Quillinzo there are camping areas that accommodate tents, trailers, and campers, as well as cabin rentals. Fishing is practiced on both the river and the adjacent Embalse Río Tercero, and a municipal permit is required for fishing on the reservoir. Visitors are reminded to avoid open fires except in designated areas and to carry out all waste. The river's calm, shallow nature and sandy character make it better suited to flatwater or recreational paddling than to whitewater disciplines.