The Bulloo River is an isolated drainage system in western Queensland, stretching approximately 600 km from its source in the Grey Range near Idalia National Park to its terminus at the ephemeral Bulloo Lake. The river drains a basin of roughly 75,534 square kilometres, passing through the towns of Adavale and Thargomindah in the Shire of Bulloo.

The most important fact for any paddler to understand is that the Bulloo River is usually dry. It is an ephemeral watercourse, meaning it only flows following significant rainfall events. Any paddling opportunity is therefore entirely dependent on flood or post-flood conditions rather than reliable seasonal flow. When the river does flood, its floodplain extends into northern New South Wales and becomes an important habitat for waterbirds.

At Quilpie, a riverside walk follows the Bulloo River along the Diamantina Developmental Road, and the area offers fishing for Yellowbelly (Golden perch) and yabbies. Basic facilities at this location include a carpark and picnic area. The surrounding landscape reflects the character of outback western Queensland, with native flora documented along interpretive signage on the walking track.

The river and its catchment hold cultural significance as the traditional country of the Kalili people, whose language region encompasses the broader area including Eulo and Thargomindah.

Given the river's ephemeral nature, it is not a practical destination for planned paddling trips under normal conditions. Paddlers interested in this waterway would need to monitor local rainfall and flood events closely and be prepared for remote, outback conditions with limited infrastructure.