The Barwon River in Victoria, Australia offers a varied paddling experience from its upper reaches near Inverleigh downstream through Geelong to its mouth at Barwon Heads, covering a navigable stretch of considerable length. The river's character changes significantly along its course, from a relatively shallow, obstacle-punctuated rural waterway in its upper sections to a wide, regulated urban river through Geelong, and finally a tidal estuary approaching the coast.

In the upper section between Inverleigh and Pollocksford, the river flows through flat sheep country with rapids ranging up to grade 2, though approximately 4km from the start there is a notable grade 2-to-3 rapid with a 3-metre fall where the river flows around an island — the best channel is on the left. About 400 metres before Pollocksford Bridge, a long grade 2 rapid features two drops of 0.5 metres and a stopper created by a submerged weir wall. At low water levels, this upper section is considered suitable for novice canoeists, with easy walkouts available on the left bank.

From Fyansford downstream through Geelong, the river widens and is regulated by a breakwater, resulting in generally flat water. Through the "rowing mile" section, the river sees heavy use by rowers, water skiers, dragon boaters, and kayakers. Paddlers should be aware that there is an exclusive-use water skiing zone between Barrabool Road, Highton and the Breakwater Bridge, where kayaking is not permitted when ski boats are operating. Ski boat traffic is also present near the ski club further downstream.

Approaching Barwon Heads, the river passes through Lake Connewarre before reaching the tidal estuary. Near the river mouth, the current can be strong — particularly on an outgoing tide — and conditions can become choppy in windy weather. Caution is advised when paddling past the Barwon Heads Bridge.

Multiple launch points exist along the river. Key access locations include Bell's Bridge near Inverleigh, Pollocksford Bridge, Fyansford Common Boat Launch (with a concrete ramp), Queens Park in Geelong (with a wooden launch platform, toilets, and paid parking), Fyans Park boat ramp, Tait's Point on Lake Connewarre (concrete ramp and pontoon), and River Parade at Barwon Heads. The Queens Park carpark is locked in the evening, so paddlers should note the closing time to avoid a fee for exit.

A popular guided expedition covers approximately 9 kilometres from Gun Dog Lane to Fyansford Common, taking around six hours.