I'm looking to buy a camera?

I'm looking to get a camera
-I'm a beginner in Photography
-I like taking pictures of things outside mostly at sunset or sunrise
-like taking pictures of nature
-prefer Nikon or cannon
-budget of about $600-7
-like color
-Durable
-changeable lenses would be good

*I think it would be really cool if I got a camera that was able to catch lightning, if I got a tripod that is. Also, something durable and not very fragile

Tell me what advise you've got for me, trying to use very simple terms. I'm not an expert and I want this to be a learning experience and photography is a passion and a hobby that I love.

Added (1). I'm looking to buy the Nikon d300

I have the nikon d3000 and love it. I got it as a beginner as well and now i
an intermediate photographer and I'm still learning new things with it.

I would suggest the Canon T3 (~$550) or the Nikon D3100 (~$650). Both are good entry-level dSLRs, so choose whatever floats your boat. Or flip a coin if you really can't decide between them.

But what you shoot has to do more with the lens you have rather than the camera body. Entry level cameras like the ones I mentioned usually come with an 18-55mm kit lens. Use that until you gather up the cash to buy a new lens appropriate for what you shoot.

However, I don't know if you can really get a rugged camera for that price. I mean if you want something real tough like the Canon 7D then that's going to cost you a little more.dSLRs like the Canon T3 and Nikon D3100 can handle a little roughing over time but don't go crazy -- always use the neck strap to avoid dropping it.

As for shooting lightning, I can't give you much advice on that, but I believe that all you need is a tripod like you said, as well as a slow shutter speed (which you can simply adjust on any dSLR).