Algonquin PP, approx. 5 hour drive north of Buffalo, NY, has
rent-it-all outfitting centers on Rte 60, with plenty of backcountry
paddling nearby. They specialize in light and ultra light canoes and
related gear.

Maine offers 3-5 day paddle on East Br Penobscot River, approx. 35
miles west of Patten. That's approx. 3 hours north of Bangor. Can tie
in with hiking in Baxter State Park (sunrise on Kataadn).
Neither APP nor ME as buggy in Aug as in June.