Great Oaks Country Club sits in Rochester, Michigan, a suburban community northeast of Detroit. The course was designed by Mark McCumber, the former PGA Tour professional who turned to course architecture after a successful playing career that included ten Tour victories. McCumber's design work, primarily concentrated in the southeastern United States and Florida, emphasizes strategic shot-making and playability across different skill levels. His work at Great Oaks represents one of his projects in the Midwest. The Rochester area features gently rolling terrain typical of southeastern Michigan, with mature hardwood forests and natural water features that characterize the landscape. McCumber's routing likely takes advantage of these native oaks and the property's natural contours to create a parkland-style layout. His design philosophy generally favors risk-reward opportunities and multiple routes of play, allowing golfers to choose aggressive or conservative strategies based on their ability and confidence. The club serves the northern Detroit suburbs, an area with a strong golf tradition and numerous private clubs. Great Oaks functions as a family-oriented country club with facilities that typically extend beyond golf to include social and recreational amenities. The course provides a home for member play and club competitions throughout the Michigan golf season, which runs from spring through fall. McCumber's design offers the membership a layout that balances challenge with enjoyment for regular play.