The Darling River flows approximately 1,435 kilometres through outback New South Wales, beginning officially at the confluence of the Culgoa and Barwon rivers roughly 90 kilometres upstream of Bourke, and ending where it joins the Murray River at Wentworth. It is the third longest river in Australia. The river passes through a number of significant towns including Brewarrina, Bourke, Louth, Tilpa, Wilcannia, Menindee, and Pooncarie before reaching Wentworth, and these settlements serve as natural staging points for resupply and access along a full-length journey.

The character of the river is distinctly remote and outback in nature. Much of the channel is wide with high banks lined with red river gums and black and yellow box trees. In low-flow conditions, paddlers encounter large, slow-moving waterholes and sandy beaches or low shelves suitable for camping. During and after flood events, the river rises to bank level and opens up hundreds of anabranches and billabongs to explore. The Darling is notably quieter and more laidback than the Murray, with far less boat traffic.

Water levels are a critical planning consideration. The river can run too low to paddle successfully for extended periods, and paddlers are advised to check flow conditions well in advance. Conversely, following significant rainfall in Queensland, flood pulses can move down the system, dramatically changing the paddling environment. One paddler reported chasing a moderate flood pulse and reaching near-peak conditions within five days of entering the river.

Wildlife along the river includes pelicans, corellas, and a variety of other waterbirds. The Menindee Lakes, encountered toward the lower section of the river, help regulate flow and represent a notable geographical feature. The river junction at Wentworth, where the Darling meets the Murray, is a recognised paddling destination in its own right, with guided tours available exploring the confluence area.

Access points exist at Brewarrina, Bourke, Louth, Tilpa, Wilcannia, Menindee, Pooncarie, and Wentworth. A concrete boat ramp is available at Wentworth Wharf on Wharf Street, with limited trailer parking, rubbish bins, benches, tables, and a nearby public toilet block. The Barkindji people have lived along the river for thousands of years, and the river also carries significant European history as a major paddle steamer trade route during the late 1800s.