[3] Its name comes from an Algonquian band of the region known as "Matouweskarini", meaning "people of the shallows".

The Madawaska River rises at Source Lake in geographic Canisbay Township in the Unorganized South Part of Nipissing District, in the highlands of southern Algonquin Park.

[2] It flows east, dropping 380 m (1,247 ft) before emptying into the Ottawa River at Arnprior.

Undammed sections of the river are also used for canoeing, kayaking and recreational fishing.

[6] In June 2002 sluice gates at the Barrett Chute Generating Station were accidentally opened, killing two people, and injuring seven.