During the early 1940's, softball was played either at "Skull Field", where the outfield was a pine forest, or at "Ranger", where the outfield was a steep slope known as "Ranger Hill". In 1946, some campers got the idea of building a good ballfield on this site and naming it after their Camp Ranger, Bill Payne. Bob Cacner, Scout Executive and Camp Director, gave permission for the construction project which was carried out in great secrecy, for this was to be a surprise! It had a chicken-wire backstop and even an impressive gateway. On July 3, 1946 "Bill Payne Field" was officially opened.

    In 1955, the Rifle Range was moved here from its original location in the ravine where Upper Cacner Lake is now located.