Reynolds Homestead summer camps inspire learning and discovery
July 22, 2026
Nearly 60 children programmed robots, explored Appalachian traditions, created art inspired by nature, and dreamed up their own superhero origin stories during four summer camps at the Reynolds Homestead.
Beginning in late June, the Virginia Tech historic property and community gathering place in Critz hosted campers ages 6 to 12 for hands-on experiences blending history, creativity, science, and play.
Superhero Camp, planned and led by intern Jy Manns, invited campers to create their own hero origin stories, make crafts, and test their powers through lawn games. The week culminated in an epic water day on the Reynolds Homestead grounds.
Local teachers Grace Helms, Robert Ashby, and Adrienne Hiatt led the other three camps.
During Camp Homestead: Appalachian Traditions, children tried weaving, baked bread, made butter, and practiced other traditional skills. The activities connected them with the history of the property and the people who lived and worked there when it was known as Rock Spring Plantation, as well as with heritage arts still practiced throughout Appalachia.
At Build-a-Bot STEM Camp, participants explored coding, robotic sensors, and the ways technology can respond to its surroundings. Using Hummingbird robotics kits, campers programmed their creations to dance and react to changing light conditions while gaining an early look at the possibilities in computer science and engineering.
Celebrate Nature Art Camp brought together two dozen budding artists. Campers worked with a variety of media and shared their creations with family and friends during a public reception at the end of the week.
The summer camps were supported in part by the Virginia Tech College Access Collaborative. Through the partnership, the Reynolds Homestead, part of Outreach and International Affairs, helps children from Patrick County and surrounding rural communities discover new interests, experience hands-on learning, and begin imagining future educational and career possibilities.
Click a photo below to view a larger version.