How use Apple ID without using iCloud

I don't want to use iCloud. I've had my MacBook Air for 10 years without using iCloud and don't miss it. I am not online at my remote rural home. I prefer to keep all my info on my own computer and not the cloud. I recently got a iPhone and in setting it up did so without putting an Apple ID on it because when I tried to do that it then asked for an iCloud password or something like that and I don't have one. Is it possible to set up the iPhone to use my Apple ID without having an iCloud password? Can I download apps on my iPhone without having the Apple ID set on it? I don't need the sharing and syncing between devices that most people find useful or essential. I don't use them as much and in the same way that most people do.