What would be the best choice for a first time photography camera?

[amy]

I am really into taking pictures but I have always gotten my moms hand me down film cameras, now I am working out at my camp, I will be hiking so much that I NEED to get a good solid camera, one with clear picture, great zoom and all the other goodies. I want a photography camera perfect for landscapes and animals but also good for just hanging around campfires. Could anyone tell me a really good camera? The max I am willing to spend for a first time camera is $600