The North Kennedy River is a tidal estuary located within the remote Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park (CYPAL) in Cook Shire, Queensland. It flows into the expansive Princess Charlotte Bay on the eastern coast of Cape York Peninsula. The river mouth is situated at approximately 14°29.676' south, 143°56.436' east. This is a coastal saltwater feature with a significant tidal influence, and paddlers must plan around these conditions. The overall region is characterized by vast, undeveloped landscapes. A key access point for paddlers is the Seven Mile camping area, which is managed by Queensland Parks and is adjacent to a large waterhole on the banks of the river. This site provides a potential launch point and basic camping facilities. Another referenced location is Hann Crossing, which suggests an inland river crossing point that may also serve as an access area. The estuary is known to support a population of estuarine crocodiles, which is a critical safety hazard requiring constant vigilance and adherence to local safety guidelines for crocodile country. The river's mouth is a destination for small powerboats, as indicated by social media posts of boaters fishing and crabbing there, so paddlers should be prepared for potential boat traffic, especially near the open bay. The surrounding national park contains significant Indigenous cultural sites, with historical records noting Bora ceremonies hosted by local groups along the river. Water quality in the North Kennedy River is part of a monitored region under Great Barrier Reef water quality improvement plans, though specific conditions for paddlers are not detailed. The paddling experience here is one of isolation and wilderness exposure, with minimal facilities beyond basic campgrounds, requiring thorough self-sufficiency, knowledge of crocodile safety, and careful tidal planning.