Sound alike the Markour will be right up your alley. Also, SR SUNTOUR has an upgrade program where you can upgrade to a better fork in their line like the Raidon/Aion/Auron for fairly cheap. I ran an Auron for a couple years and loved it as a great trail fork.
As for stuff near you, I grew up in that area (Escalon) and your right, nearest thing is going to be either Big Bear or maybe New Melones. Check out Trailforks app for stuff that may be closer. There are a few trails in Modesto but that may be a bit of a drive for not much.