The Sassafras River is a tidal river over 20 miles long in Maryland, flowing through Cecil and Kent counties before meeting the Chesapeake Bay. Its upper section near the town of Sassafras is narrow, averaging about 20 feet wide, and flows through a heavily wooded corridor with shallow water. After passing under the Route 301 bridge, the river widens and the landscape transitions to farmland with some residential areas. Downriver from the Route 213 bridge, the twin ports of Georgetown and Fredericktown feature busy marinas and are centers for recreational boating. The lower river near its mouth is lined with dramatic, forested cliffs that provide habitat for bald eagles, which are commonly seen. The river is a popular multi-use waterway, experiencing heavy powerboat traffic, especially on weekends from May through October, which creates numerous confused waves. For quieter paddling, the many tributary creeks offer shallow waters accessible primarily to small craft.

Key public access points include Turner’s Creek Park and Duffy Creek Marina, which has a public boat ramp and parking lot near Galena. Other potential launches include Shallowcross Wharf, which involves a difficult climb down loose granite rocks, and a public boat launch near the Granary Restaurant and Marina. Some sites, like a launch in Georgetown, may be privately restricted with "No Trespassing" signs, so confirming public access is advised. Paddlers must account for significant tidal currents; one account describes starting a trip paddling east against the tide. A slow boat/no-wake zone exists about a mile west of the Route 213 drawbridge, but boat traffic in the main channel remains substantial. The river is best paddled in spring, summer, and fall. The water supports a variety of wildlife including blue crabs, turtles, and small fish in the shallows.