I think tires matter more than anything else, a hybrid with a 40mm tire will tackle just about anything with ease. It's simpler. It's lighter. I only prefer to ride a hard tail when I'm on a trail where I frequently run over rocks the size of a baseball or soda can. I would only get a mtb for 100% use on those types of trails, I don't like riding a mtb on gravel all that much and definitely not on paved roads. Just my preference, I started with a hard-tail in 98 but it didn't take long before I moved on to a hybrid and traded the mtb. Now I mostly ride a drop bar road bike, even on some of the more bumpy paths through the woods.

So, the things to consider are the size of the rocks and the amount of mud and if your tires will give you enough clearance. Will the shock actually give you any benefit, or is it just adding weight? At the very least make sure your front shock has a lock out feature or else you will waste a ton of energy riding up any paved hills.

I'd suggest finding a lightly used hard tail for a good price and starting from there, if it doesn't suit your needs, you can spend more on a hybrid and have the correct bike for whatever scenario presents itself. I frequently see old Specialized Rockhoppers, C'dales, and Kona's for around $100 on CL.

It's really hard to give a good answer without riding along with you and seeing what you really have to deal with in person. Photos help.