The river's origin is in the eastern extremity of the Little Karoo, and follows a valley between these mountains eastwards.

Agricultural settlements along the river include Studtis and Sandvlakte.

The valley is situated about 35 km north of the Langkloof, which is comparable though larger.

The Baviaanskloof river is part of the Fish to Tsitsikama Water Management Area.

[2][3] Robert Gordon however named it the Prehns River, in honour of a commander of the Cape garrison.