The nesting activity of the Chinese softshell turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis) in its natural habitat is largely undocumented despite its broad geographical distribution across East Asia. Here, we report on female nesting behaviors, egg incubation, and hatchling emergence of P. sinensis on the Yellow River in northwestern China. In this region, the turtle is currently threatened by overharvesting, and successful conservation strategies should include strict monitoring of hunting and trade activities.