Okik, good for you for recognizing your personal limitations when shooting at a live target. That's one of the toughest things to discipline yourself to stick with.

As for 3D, you'll enjoy it immensely and become addicted. Our typical distances range from about 15 yards to the occasional 60+/- and an average shot is probably about 28. If I remember right, the maximum under IBO rules is supposed to be 50. So you'll eventually have to expand your comfort zone as well as get skilled at judging yardage.

You're right about no backstops. Yes, you'll have to go hounddogging for any arrows that miss the mark. Even if you see them hit the ground, they often end up a lot farther away than you expect. With other groups behind you, you will have to limit your initial search to a reasonable time. All shoots have a 'found arrow' bucket and following groups will often stumble across someone else's wayward arrows; be sure to check the bucket before leaving for the day.

Oh, the distances I mentioned pertain to compound bows. There will be another set of stakes for archers shooting traditional equipment, so if you're doing that, you'll be much closer.

Have a ball.