Maine is topnotch for outdoor activities, but it lacks nightlife. At least that's the conclusion of a recent report. But paddlers sample some of both this Labor Day weekend.

Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival takes place on the shores of the New Meadows River, a tidal estuary in Casco Bay that's very popular among paddlers.

Paddling among the islands of the New Meadows River
Scott Andrews photos

A so-called "Vermont yacht" is pulled ashore Friday afternoon at Thomas Point Beach by an attendee of the big bluegrass festival, which runs through Sunday

While most kayakers enjoy gunkholing around the myriad islands, you can find Maine's biggest bluegrass festival at the end of a westerly arm of the New Meadows River, not far from Seaspray Kayaking. Pickin' and grinnin' runs from 9 a.m. till about 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Click here and check out the schedule.

Casey Henry, banjo picker with the Tennessee Heartstrings, plays a cut from her new album titled "Real Women Drive Trucks"

A "shore dinner" awaits paddlers and pickers alike at Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival

Along the shores of the Kennebec River, Three Rivers Fun -- a whitewater adventure company owned by rock guitarist and raft guide Joe Christopher -- offers a bonfire and rock band Saturday night. The band is J.C. and the Pickups. Guess who's the front man.

Although Three Rivers Fun is best known for its commercial rafting and inflatable kayak trips through the Kennebec Gorge and the Dead River, the section of the Kennebec below The Forks is excellent for casual cruising in canoes and recreational kayaks.

Inflatable kayak on Kennebec River
Photo courtesy Three Rivers Fun

I've rafted with the company before and also stayed at their campground. Still crave action after the sun sets? Head for the Boatmen's Bar, where J.C. and the Pickups will rock your aqua-socks off.

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