Kauri Creek is an inlet off Lake Tinaroo in Danbulla State Forest and National Park, located on the Atherton Tablelands in Queensland, approximately 29 kilometres northeast of Atherton and around 80–90 kilometres from Cairns. The creek flows into the lake through a rainforest corridor, with the canopy narrowing and bending inward over the water as the creek shallows toward its upper reaches, providing natural shade along the paddle.

Access is via Danbulla Road, a 28-kilometre partially sealed road through the park. The Kauri Creek camping area is situated 9 kilometres from the western entrance and 19 kilometres from the eastern entrance. A steep grassed slope leads to an unsealed boat ramp approximately 50 metres past the information board and toilets. The road is narrow and can be rough, and care is advised particularly for two-wheel-drive vehicles.

The paddling character is easy and unhurried, well suited to wildlife observation. Australian Wood Ducks, Masked Lapwings, and Intermediate Egrets have been recorded along the route. The creek can also be reached by paddling from other parts of Lake Tinaroo, with the option of mooring below the bridge at the Kauri Creek picnic area.

A significant hazard exists in the form of submerged tree stumps — remnants of the forest that existed before Lake Tinaroo was created by damming the Barron River in 1958. These underwater obstacles make the area unsuitable for water skiing or motorised watersports at speed, though they pose little risk to canoes and kayaks travelling slowly. Water levels in the creek are directly tied to lake levels, which fluctuate seasonally with rainfall. Later in the dry season, the upper reaches of the creek can become very shallow, potentially requiring paddlers to walk sections of the route.

Facilities at the camping area include toilets, BBQs, fire pits, and open grassed campsites suitable for tents and camper trailers. A 600-metre connecting track links the camping area to the Kauri Creek day-use area. The area holds cultural significance for the Tableland Yidinji Aboriginal people.