GALVESTON, Texas – Thousands of visitors are expected to head to the Bolivar Peninsula this week as Galveston County prepares for the annual “Go Topless Weekend,” commonly known as Jeep Weekend.
According to the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office, the event is scheduled for May 14-18 and has historically drawn more than 100,000 people to the beaches on Bolivar Peninsula.
Recommended Videos
Officials say the large crowds have created serious public safety concerns in previous years, including homicides, shootings, sexual assaults, fatal crashes, assaults and other disorderly conduct incidents.
In preparation for the event, the sheriff’s office said it is implementing a strategic public safety plan with help from local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. Authorities say there will be a significant increase in law enforcement presence throughout the weekend and a zero-tolerance enforcement policy will be in effect.
“Violations of the law will be enforced,” the sheriff’s office said in a social media post announcing preparations for the event.
Camping banned during event
County officials announced camping will be prohibited on all Bolivar Peninsula beaches from May 14-18.
Authorities said the restriction is necessary to help emergency crews and law enforcement respond to incidents more effectively during the high-traffic weekend.
Officials also warned visitors to expect heavy congestion and traffic delays throughout Bolivar Peninsula and surrounding areas. Some roads may be temporarily restricted or redirected as part of the county’s traffic management plan.
Residents, renters and property owners will still be allowed access to restricted neighborhoods and streets but must provide proof of residency or ownership, such as:
- A driver’s license with matching address
- Rental agreement
- Utility bill
- Other proof of ownership
Homeowners can also obtain a placard from Galveston County at 946 Noble Carl Drive in Crystal Beach.
Beach rules for Jeep Weekend 2026
Galveston County officials reminded visitors of several beach rules that will be strictly enforced during the event, including:
- No parking on the beach within designated event areas
- No camping on the beach
- No bonfires
- No littering
- No glass containers
- No reckless driving
- No stopping to unload trailers
- Speed limit of 15 mph on the beach
- Dogs must remain leashed
- Stay off protected dunes
Officials also emphasized that ATVs, UTVs and other off-highway vehicles are prohibited on state highways and public roads.
Drivers operating motorized vehicles on the beach must have a valid driver’s license, and open containers are prohibited while operating a vehicle.
Mass gatherings are also prohibited under Texas Natural Resources Code Section 61.252.