The shore of Flinders Channel forms part of the southern boundary.

[2] The 2016 census determined a population of 265 for the state suburb of Carlton River.

[1] The locality is likely named for the stream Carlton River that passes through it from north-east to south-west.

[3] The C349 route (Sugarloaf Road) runs south from the Arthur Highway through the locality, providing access to Primrose Sands.

The C334 route (Carlton River Road) passes through the locality from west to east.