Yes, a camera for under 300 for the basic to intermediate user is very possible...I will do a bit of searching and give you a couple of places to start in a little bit
Edit: just a quick search, but this is what I came up with:
Excellent package for the begining user...
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...456390&CatId=0
Decent brand, decent price...
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...457916&CatId=0
I personally use sony camera's and have been very pleased...very small and compact
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...483720&CatId=0
Another good sony buy...
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...419068&CatId=0
Any of these would be a good camera that shall last for some time with decent care. For web applications, the resolution is more than ample, as any larger and the files are almost too big to be usable. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask away.