I agree that the price variation of different options can be huge. Most people have many things around the house that can be used, you can find stuff at second-hand and dollar stores, you can hit a Walmart/Can Tire type store or you can go high-end.

Depending on what mode of camping, and where you'll be doing it, I'd suggest that you can make-do with lots of other gear but a decent tent is a key purchase. Again, there's a huge range in price, quality and features. Getting a tent with a bathtub floor, fly cover fly and durable seams is crucial for "all weather" camping. Our Walmart has one fitting this criteria on sale for $37 this week but there are LOTS of other options.