The Kaministiquia River, commonly known as "the Kam," originates at Dog Lake northwest of Thunder Bay and flows approximately 95 kilometres (60 miles) before emptying into Thunder Bay, an arm of Lake Superior. Along its course, the river passes over Kakabeka Falls, a wide cataract standing 47 metres (154 feet) high that is the site of a major hydroelectric station. As the river approaches Thunder Bay, it divides into three channels, providing deepwater shipping access to the city's port facilities.

The stretch of the Kaministiquia most commonly paddled runs through the urban and near-urban sections of Thunder Bay. Paddlers on this portion of the river pass Fort William Historical Park, a living history site connected to the fur trade era, where tent camping is available and day trips can be launched on the sheltered waters adjacent to the park. The river also offers views of Mt. McKay (Animikii Wajiw), which rises prominently above the surrounding landscape. The Kaministiquia is generally described as offering a mix of whitewater and calmer paddling sections, making it suitable for a range of skill levels depending on the chosen stretch.

One established access point is the Mountdale Avenue boat launch, located along the river within Thunder Bay. This site has a boat ramp and parking. The Kaministiquia River Heritage Park, situated on the riverbanks along Syndicate Avenue in Thunder Bay, provides another point of access to the river corridor, though it is primarily oriented toward walking and sightseeing.

For paddlers interested in outfitting and logistics, Canadian Quetico Outfitters, located on Mountain Road near the Kaministiquia River en route to Quetico Provincial Park, offers canoe rentals, camping equipment rentals, shuttles, and trip planning services. Chaltrek, at 404 Balmoral Street in Thunder Bay, also offers kayak and canoe rentals.

The river carries historical significance as a route used by Indigenous peoples and later by French-Canadian voyageurs during the fur trade era. Fort William Historical Park, situated along the river, interprets this history and allows visitors to see and paddle authentic birch bark canoes.