The Berkeley River is located in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, flowing approximately 135 kilometres to the Timor Sea via the Joseph Bonaparte Gulf near Reveley Island and Cape St Lambert. The river rises from the Tadrida Scarp and flows in a north-easterly direction through Drysdale River National Park and the Oombulgarri Indigenous Reserve. Its two tributaries are the De Lancourt River and Casuarina Creek. The river was named in 1911 by explorer Charles Price Conigrave after his brother Berkeley Fairfax Conigrave.

The area is extremely remote and not accessible by road. The most practical access for paddlers is by boat from Wyndham, the northernmost town in the Kimberley region, or via light aircraft from Kununurra or Darwin. One kayaker documented paddling to the river from Wyndham, departing Cambridge Gulf into the Timor Sea. The river mouth has a tidal rockbar where freshwater meets saltwater; beyond this point, upstream travel by small craft on foot or by dragging a kayak is required. Approximately ten kilometres upstream from the mouth lies Casuarina Creek and its falls, with massive vertical sandstone cliffs lining the river throughout. Camping options within the gorge are extremely limited due to steep cliffs and mangroves, with only very small ledges available above the high water mark.

Crocodiles are present throughout the river and should be considered a serious hazard. Paddlers have reported crocodiles mingling among the mangroves along the river banks. Tidal currents are a significant factor for planning upstream and downstream travel.

Access to the land adjoining the Berkeley River is subject to Aboriginal land permit requirements. The traditional owners are the Balanggarra community, who hold native title over the surrounding land. In recent years, land access permits have been denied by the Balanggarra community, meaning paddlers cannot go ashore without permission. Paddling on the water itself falls under a different jurisdiction, but prospective visitors should check current permit requirements with the Balanggarra community directly before planning a trip.

The river is characterised by towering red sandstone cliffs rising directly from the water, creating a gorge environment. Mangroves line sections of the lower river. The upper reaches near Casuarina Creek contain freshwater pools. Wildlife beyond crocodiles includes the broader remote Kimberley fauna typical of the region.