Donald and Gus Goose are prospectors lost in Death Valley. Tortured by heat and thirst, they trek across the barren terrain in search of water. They encounter various mirages, including a group of Lorelei ducks lounging by a swimming pool. One of the girls sips a cool drink and beckons to them. While Donald investigates, Gus, with the aid of his lucky derby hat, discovers a strange capricious laughing spring and is able to quench his thirst. Donald tries to trap the elusive water, but is unable to get a drop.