The Stanley River is a perennial river in South East Queensland, Australia, flowing roughly 35 kilometres from its source in the Conondale Range west of Landsborough, through Peachester and Woodford toward Kilcoy, before veering southward to its mouth below Lake Somerset, where it joins the Brisbane River. The river drains a basin of approximately 1,535 square kilometres and is a major tributary of the Brisbane River system.

For paddlers, the river offers two quite different experiences depending on the section. The stretch of the Stanley River between Peachester and the D'Aguilar Highway crossing near Woodford is strongly discouraged for paddling due to the high frequency of fallen trees, which create conditions ranging from badly obstructed to extremely hazardous. This section should be avoided.

The more accessible and rewarding paddling is found on the upper reaches of Lake Somerset, where the Stanley River feeds into the top of the dam. When the dam is near full, it is possible to paddle approximately 37 kilometres from The Spit boat ramp to a point on the Stanley River above the Neurum Road bridge, where the catchment tapers off. The forested hills along the shoreline provide pleasant scenery, and the Stanley River arm of the lake offers genuine exploratory paddling through a number of small inlets and creeks. The boat ramp at Westvale Road, where the Stanley River enters the top of the lake, is considered an excellent access point for this area.

Below Somerset Dam, access to the Stanley River is available at the Somerset Park Camp Ground, though this is restricted to paying guests at the campsite. Between Somerset and Wivenhoe dams, the Stanley River and its confluence with the Brisbane River can also be explored from O'Sheas Crossing, which is limited to paddle craft only and provides good water access. This section benefits from year-round steady water levels due to dam management, making it a reliable paddling destination regardless of season. The birdlife in the region is noted as exceptional, and standing timber both on the banks and in the water adds to the visual character of the area.