Need advise on camping in RV lot

Hey folks. I've been to RG for 14 years but have always camped in the tent only area. This year with a 2 yr. old and a baby, we've opted for camping in the RV lot with a pop up. Having never spent much time in that lot I have some questions:
1. Do they let you park your camper anywhere or do they tell you where to go?
2. If we're camping with friends who are bringing their van but are not next to us in the line, can we save space for them?
3. Can we throw down tarps and save space for tent campers joining us later?
4. Is there any area that's less noisy (laughable, I know) for a baby who doesn't sleep well?
5. How hard is it to get a spot near the river? We're planning on being in line when it opens on Monday.
6. Anybody know where Academy is camping this year?
7. Are the campers all packed like sardines?
8. Any areas we should avoid - like that have major jams every year (again the baby thing).
9. Is there any shade or is it just hot as hell?

Any tips would be greatly appreciated.