The Southwest River flows through Queens County on Prince Edward Island, emptying into New London Bay near New London Harbour. The river is suited to day trips and can be paddled as an out-and-back route, with the total distance of a full excursion reaching approximately 17 kilometres and typically taking around three hours to complete.

There are two main access points. The first is along Route 20 at the bridge crossing near New London, where a bridge and wharf provide a convenient launch site. This location is also noted as the site of an eagle's nest. A second option is to launch from Browns Road near Campbellton, a road leading toward McEwens Island. Browns Road is accessible to the public, unlike many of the surrounding cottage roads, and it leads directly to the water's edge. Paddlers launching here should plan their trip around the tides, as doing so minimizes the distance required to carry a boat to the water.

From New London Harbour, the route heads upstream on the Southwest River. Side trips are possible up Sutherland Creek, Long River, Clinton Creek, Durant Creek, and Turplin Creek. Long River also offers an alternate access or egress point. The route continues upstream past Thompsons Point before returning. Paddlers heading further upstream toward the community of Margate should be aware that the water becomes shallow and aquatic grasses can impede paddle strokes, making progress difficult beyond a certain point.

The river is suitable for both sea kayaks and canoes. Summer is the recommended season for paddling. The area around New London Bay and the surrounding waterways offers a varied estuary environment, and the presence of an eagle's nest near the Route 20 bridge suggests opportunities for wildlife observation along the route.