Does anybody else try to fly at night at a place such as a reasonably well lit shopping plaza? I have tried this quite a few times in the wee hours of the morning and I seem to usually have a crash. This is not good on pavement. I can usually see the plane alright but I seem to lose control when it gets near the ground. Is this something that should generally be avoided?

No.
I fly at night at the flying field or in a large open field where there's little chance of damaging private property. I suggest that you do the same. Flying in a parking lot with light poles and blacktop and buildings is not a good idea.................. especially at night.