One thing to consider is that shops frequently claim many tables as their own, even though they have no intention of actually using them. It's an annoyance to the n'th degree for those who show up with no shop affiliation and who would just like to have a friggin' table to use.
If you don't show up early enough to thwart the evil mega-shop table grabbers who grab 12 tables for 4-6 members in their group, then you'd better be prepared to hunt down a table in the nether reaches of the quarry or beg for some space from someone else.
Once you've failed that mission, be prepared to plop yourself and gear on the ground and just ride out the day. Dutch Springs can be fun, but it's less so when you're independent, just trying to get your fins wet.