The Klip River in Gauteng is a popular paddling destination for Johannesburg-based kayakers, running approximately 21 kilometres from Henley-on-Klip to the confluence with the Vaal River at the Riverfront in Three Rivers, Vereeniging. The river is graded 1 to 2, characterised by long flat pools punctuated by short rapids, and is generally suited to K1 paddlers and beginners. A typical run takes between two and four hours. No permits are required to paddle the river.

The standard put-in is at Henley-on-Klip, reached by turning left off the road from Meyerton before the R551 crosses the Klip, then turning right after 2 kilometres to reach the low-level bridge. The take-out is at the Riverfront in Three Rivers at the Vaal confluence. Several intermediate access points exist, including the Rothdene campsite approximately 5 kilometres below the sports ground, and a railway bridge further downstream, allowing shorter trips to be arranged. An annual race is held over the full distance.

The river is not dam-controlled and can be paddled year-round, sustained by summer rainfall and natural seepage during drier months. The water quality is generally considered acceptable for paddling, though the river has a history of pollution from mine dumping, agricultural and animal waste, and sewage disposal. Non-indigenous trees planted along the banks over the past 150 years create strainer hazards and require attention, particularly at higher water levels.

Key obstacles include a weir near the put-in that can be shot on the left, and a boulder weir at the Rothdene campsite with a straightforward chute at all levels. A low-level bridge between the Rothdene weir and the railway bridge can be passed underneath on the far right at low water or over the middle at high water. The weir below the railway bridge presents a strong suckback at low levels and has caused serious swims; portaging this feature is advisable unless water levels are high enough to render it safer. A broken bridge downstream must be shot on the far right. The playspot known as Double Drop and a small hole approximately 100 metres below it attract playboaters when conditions allow. The Rothdene campsite is available as a camping facility and is frequently used as an intermediate put-in or take-out.