Another vote for the Trail Hawk.

Bought my first Jeep this year. No my first off-road/4x4. It's a '93 Cherokee XJ. Even in stock form it is fine for light wheeling and FS roads. Holds everything for a weekend camping trip. Lots of upgrades available.

Pick a style and start reading.

http://www.jeepforum.com
http://www.colorado4x4.org