We spent Canada Day paddling Lake St. Clair and the Detroit River to Peche Island, a park on the Canadian side of the Detroit River.  Although we only live about 2 km from the island, the kids have never been there as it is only accessible by boat.  Various canals cut through the island and there are some great beaches and ruins of a mansion build by Hiram Walker.  It's a great kayaking area and a great spot to get out of the city for awhile.  Until recently there was even a pair of nesting bald eagles on the island.  Their nest was dislodged from the tree 2 winters ago and they are now nesting on the mainland a few fields west of our house. 

Attached are a couple of links of photos and info.

http://www.walkervilletimes.com/curse-peche-island.html

http://www.flickr.com/photos/algonquinpaddler/sets/72157605931282713/

We hope the 4th of July brings equally spectacular paddling weather.

Chris