The Palm River is a 3.2-mile tidal stream in Hillsborough County, Florida, connecting the Tampa Bypass Canal with McKay Bay. It is a channelized, brackish waterway offering a unique urban paddling experience characterized by a mix of industrial and natural landscapes. The river's tidal nature is a primary consideration for paddlers, and it is influenced by the connection to Tampa Bay. One primary public access point is at Harney Park on the Tampa Bypass Canal, which charges a daily launch fee. Paddlers should be prepared for motorboat traffic, which is a primary hazard, requiring defensive paddling awareness. Strong currents may also exist, particularly after heavy rainfall. The water body is impaired for dissolved oxygen, enterococci, and nutrients, and sediment in the connected Bypass Canal has been reported to contain pollutants like PCBs and pesticides from historical industrial runoff. Wildlife viewing is a notable feature, with opportunities to see various birds such as herons, egrets, and ducks. As with all Florida waterways, alligators are common and require paddlers to be mindful of their surroundings. There are no direct on-water camping facilities along the river. The overall experience is best suited for paddlers seeking a relatively calm, short trip with a chance to observe wildlife within an urban setting, though the environment is heavily shaped by its channelized history and proximity to industrial areas.