I've always wanted to camp but have never seen the point.

Presuming an absolute barebones understanding of the outdoor, what would someone need to go camping for a weekend?

What sort of outdoor activites can someone do?

I personally have had no cash to invest in tents, sleeping bags, roll mats, gas canisters, stoves, ect, but feel I could start investing. I have always wanted to go camping but never had the friendship group, the money, or any visible opportunities. Now though I have an outdoorsy girlfriend so have an excuse to go into the wilderness.