For the past few months I've been finding myself going to local parks more and more, off the beaten path, and just loving being out in nature. I figure I'm at the point where I'd like to start taking it a step further and get some camping gear and a nice off-roading bike but I don't really know what brands to go for as the marketplaces are flooded with different brands.

could I get some recommendations on some starting gear for spending a night or two out in the woods? The bike is probably the thing I'd like to spend the most money on to begin with as I like to ride bikes in general so I figure that's the thing I'll get the most use out of.

Also, I hate to add to the already bloated request, but any general tips for somebody just starting out on backpacking and camping out would be much appreciated.