Seven Oaks is owned by Colgate University and located southeast of Syracuse on the east side of Hamilton adjoining the campus in a scenic, natural setting.

The course is a challenging, parkland style layout with multiple, twisting streams and ponds in play and sand bunkers primarily defending the generous greens. It was one of Robert Trent Jones Sr's first attempts, who as a graduate of Colgate designed the course in 1934, but sat idle as a result of the Depression. The first nine, with an assist by Stanley Thompson was completed in 1956, the second in 1966. It plays to 6,915 yards from the back tees, 74.6/143, course/slope ratings with three shorter sets of tees.