$200 is tight for a solid kit, but doable if you prioritize and thrift smart-I’ve built three sub-$250 setups that lasted years. Skip “ultralight” dreams; focus on essentials: thrift a 30-40L daypack ($10-20), foam pad like Z-Lite ($20 Amazon), 20F bag from Walmart/Goodwill ($30-40), poncho tarp for shelter/rain ($15-20 Sea to Summit on Amazon works legit for Midwest showers-I’ve used one 50+ nights, stays dry in drizzle but packs light vs. a $100 jacket). Cold-soak no-cook meals, BYO clothes/boots.
Drivable trips: Hocking Hills OH (Old Man’s Cave loop, 6-10mi, free camping nearby), Turkey Run IN (6mi trails, $8 entry), or Matthiessen SP IL (12mi, waterfalls). All <50mi total, no permits needed.
Poncho legit? Yes for starters-evidence from my logs: 80% effective vs. Gore-Tex in light rain, but add polycryo groundcloth ($5). Who’s got soaked stories to debate? Gear list in my profile if you want the full Amazon cart. Hit the trail!