Salt Creek originates in McLean County near the town of Heyworth and flows generally westward and southwestward for approximately 60 miles through McLean, Logan, Menard, and Mason counties before joining the Sangamon River. This tributary system drains a significant portion of central Illinois agricultural land, creating a meandering waterway characterized by steep, often wooded banks and a relatively narrow channel.

The creek enters Logan County through Aetna Township from the east, where it maintains considerable forested cover along its upper reaches. As it winds westward, Salt Creek merges with Lake Fork before turning northward near Lincoln, where it converges with Deer Creek just south of the city near the Edward R. Madigan State Fish and Wildlife Area. This 974-acre state park represents one of the most significant public access points along the creek's entire length, offering fishing, canoeing, and hiking opportunities within a protected natural corridor.

Paddling Salt Creek requires intermediate skills due to frequent obstructions from downed trees, particularly after flooding events. The narrow channel and steep banks make maneuvering around obstacles challenging, though the current remains generally slow and manageable.

Historical channelization work in the early 1900s straightened some sections to reduce flooding, creating the Lower Salt Creek tributary, but many unchanneled portions retain their natural character. The creek flows through predominantly agricultural land, yet retains substantial riparian forest in several areas, particularly in Corwin Township near Middletown and throughout the northern McLean County sections.

These wooded corridors support diverse wildlife including deer, raccoons, various waterfowl, and numerous fish species such as catfish, bluegill, and bass. The creek historically carried significant agricultural silt, though this varies seasonally, with clearer water typically appearing during winter months.

Access remains limited along most of Salt Creek's length, with the Madigan State Fish and Wildlife Area providing the most developed facilities. The creek passes near the communities of Lincoln, Middletown, and several smaller settlements, though convenient launch points are scarce. Rocky Ford Bridge in Logan County serves as a recognized access point for paddlers willing to navigate more primitive conditions.

Spring and early summer typically offer the most reliable water levels for paddling, though the creek's flow can vary dramatically. The Logan County Regional Greenways Plan identifies Salt Creek as a priority greenway corridor, recognizing its importance for flood prevention, water quality, wildlife habitat, and potential recreational connectivity. The waterway holds historical significance for Logan County residents as a long-standing recreation area and vital component of the region's natural ecology.