I am going to do an overnight with a few friends up Mt Rogers and back. I wouldn't expect any SoBo thrus in this area this late in the year so I'm ASSUMING there is ample space for 3 people?? So I have a couple questions for those who have been to Thomas Knob shelter:

1) If space is limited are there any flat areas near the shelter for a tent? The pictures I've seen look VERY rocky
2) My friends are princess campers, so are there any privys in the area?
3) The elevation is around 5000'; any advice on climate in early November would be appreciated.
4) Is it worth the trek up to Mt Rogers?
5) Are fires permitted at the shelter?

I've tried searching but what I found were old threads. Hopefully someone can give me a better idea what to expect at this shelter. This is my 1st overnighter on the AT, kinda exciting!