I have seen a few threads showing some great pictures, thinking about getting a digital SLR. I admit I do not know much about them so looking for suggestions. Not looking for the latest and greatest, this is will be for fun pictures. Do want a reliable camera with decent functionality. Will also look to get telescopic lenses for some distance shots, so any suggestions of what to look for there would be appreciated. Price range is in the 1k area.

My wife had got me a Nikon D40 for Christmas two years ago.  Came with the camera two lenses and a carry case.  I think she paid around $600 for it.  It has been a good camera, doesn't have all the bells and whistles as some of the other higher end Nikons but the photo quality and adjustabliity have been great.  The D40's are probobly cheaper by now with all the newer models out. With your price range you should be able to find a real good camera and maybe have a little $ left over for some other accesories like a tripod or flash.

If you want something a little different that takes great pictures and has a bit of a following take a look at the Pentax K-Series. They are great bang for the buck and can hang with the Nikons and Cannons.

There's plenty of information on the Internet about cameras. You might also want to visit a camera store, taking with you a memory card. A good store should let you take some pictures with one of the demo models so you can get a feel for the equipment and when you get home you can upload the card contents and carefully check the results.