The river rises of the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range approximately 200 kilometres (120 mi) west of Cairns.

From source to mouth the river's waters overflow into intertwining lagoons that create an enormous wetland sanctuary for a vast array of unique wildlife and plants.

When the rains of the wet season cease, the Staaten River retreats from the floodplains and wetlands and becomes little more than a thread trickling down wide sand banks and a string of important lagoon refuges.

[3] Dinah Island, located about 15 kilometres (9 mi) inland, is a small cattle property and at times provides short term accommodation for fishing enthusiasts.

[citation needed] With little agricultural development, scant road access, and thriving forests and wildlife, it is a truly wild river system.

The Staaten Wild River Area covers about 25,700 square kilometres (9,900 sq mi) at the western base of Cape York Peninsula.