Originally from Pittsburgh, Bill and Margaretta Frew first came to the area in 1924 to visit the Bar BC Ranch. In 1927, they purchased a 135-acre ranch near Moose, which later became known as the 4 Lazy F ranch. They built a family retreat and personal guest ranch there. The Frews were ardent fishermen so in 1939 they bought a much larger ranch in South Park primarily for its excellent trout streams. Both properties were called the 4 Lazy F but were distinguished by the "Upper Ranch," referring to the property to the North near Moose, and the "Lower Ranch," referring to the property today known as 3 Creek Ranch. The Lower Ranch was used as the private fishing destination for Upper Ranch guests and the Frew family themselves.

Bill and Margaretta had two daughters, Emily and Peg. The ranches were branded the 4 Lazy F for the Four Lazy Frews. Peg and her husband Ted Conderman acquired the ranch in October of 1942. They then sold the ranch to Maurice and Josie Horn in December of 1945. Mr. Horn passed away and his widowed wife was left to work the ranch by herself. Emily and her husband, Henry Oliver, got word from their banker, Buck Buchenroth, that Josie Horn was interested in selling the property. Therefore, the Oliver's bought the ranch back in January of 1960.